Final answer:
Viricidals are disinfectants that kill or inactivate viruses. They are part of a group of antimicrobial agents used in health care to control the spread of infections and ensure sanitation practices. The effectiveness of viricidals, like other germicides, varies based on their level and the factors influencing their use.
Step-by-step explanation:
Viricidals are disinfectants specifically used to kill or inactivate viruses. They are part of a broader category of antimicrobial agents, which also includes bactericides (which kill bacteria), fungicides (which kill fungi), and antiparasitics (which kill parasites). The effectiveness of these disinfectants can depend on factors such as exposure time, concentration, and environmental conditions.
High-level germicides are capable of killing various microorganisms including fungi, viruses, and bacterial spores, and can lead to sterilization. Natural products like eucalyptus and tea tree oil can act as natural viricides. However, in health care settings, chemical disinfectants such as chlorine-based compounds are commonly used for cleaning non-living surfaces to prevent the spread of infections.