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Manchester biochemists and Manchester University have developed a snood with ‘germ trap’ technology to help in stopping the spread of viruses.

Virustatic Shield is the response of leading Manchester scientists to the problem that face masks won’t stop the coronavirus.

The innovative antiviral fabric coating applied to a light snood traps 96 per cent of airborne viruses.

It is the result of 10 years research by Manchester biochemists.

The team behind it are working round the clock to bring it to full production in response to the global outbreak of COVID-19.

Unlike ordinary masks, scientists say the Virustatic Shield can be worn comfortably for hours at a time and is reusable, washable and 'harmless to touch after being exposed to germs.'

The scientists behind it have also said the coating ‘gives real virus stopping power to the thinnest material.’

Tests so far have shown it is 'effective against a range of viruses including coronavirus, flu, SARS, MERS and the common cold.'

Research and development of the Virustatic Shield was a collaboration between world-leading scientists at Manchester University and across the UK.

It is particularly useful for those who believe they may have the coronavirus and do not want to infect family, friends or others they are in contact with.

Inventor Paul Hope, from Marple, says the research found that material treated with the harmless Virustatic coating offers '96% protection against airborne viruses.'

He adds: “I’m concerned that the biggest provider of viruses, the people you are treating, can’t wear existing masks. Issues with breathability mean you can’t put a mask on them. If they could, that would reduce the virus within the hospital environment.”

His Virustatic Shield has been designed to mould to the wearers face, making it suitable for men and women, young and old. While its single layer of cloth offers unrivalled virus protection.

Paul explains: “Our snood mask moulds to your face. And it’s all the way round…not just around your nose and mouth. It fits everyone.

"One problem with conventional masks is how do you fit test them? If men wear them with a bit of a beard, or children wear them, they don’t fit. There are so many different configurations. “

Manchester University coined the term ‘germ trap’ to describe the antiviral properties of the Virustatic protein coating.

Prof Sabine Flitsch, from the Manchester Institute of Biotechnology, says Virustatic technology “helps prevent the spread of virus.”

She adds: “The surface of the material is very adhesive to viruses and the material itself can inactivate the virus once bound.”

The new technology means the medical-grade protection of Virustatic Shield can be offered at high street prices and is available online.