Dear Colleagues,

Exposure to microorganisms such as fungi, bacteria, viruses, and their byproducts may cause diseases and allergenic responses. Exposure can occur as a result of contact with an infected individual, consumption of contaminated food, and contact with contaminated objects, surfaces or textiles. To prevent infection from spreading and to maintain the barrier, disinfection and hygiene habits are crucial, especially when the microorganism can persist and survive on textiles, surfaces, food packaging and medical devices. Therefore, we are continually looking for innovative approaches to improve and maintain high level of hygiene. Such measures become particularly relevant in healthcare-associated environments, to avoid infections in patients under medical care. Nosocomial infections, which are due to different pathogenic microorganisms represent an important financial burden for health care systems.

Again, in the food area many efforts have recently been directed towards the search for active packaging containing antimicrobials in order to avoid further microbial deterioration of food products and to enhance food preservation. This is determinant not only from the point of view of shelf-life but also for possible allergenic response caused by contaminated food.

In the textiles field, antimicrobial finishing is extremely important in the production of technical, protective and decorative textile products. Textiles characterized by an antimicrobial finishing find application in food, pharmaceutical, medical, engineering and agricultural industries. Thanks to an antimicrobial finishing, users are protected from pathogenic or odor-generating microorganisms, which can cause medical and hygienic problems.

As a consequence, to support the extensive infection control programs already applied, there is an increasing demand for novel and improved antimicrobials active against a wide range of potential pathogens.

Currently, many studies have confirmed the benefits of using antimicrobials for surfaces; therefore, the main aim of this Special Issue is to offer an updated overview of the most innovative studies focused on antimicrobials for surfaces to control exposure to bacteria, viruses, and fungi.

Prof. Dr. Laura Fumagalli
Guest Editor

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• Hygiene
• infection prevention
• surface disinfection
• biocide