Which term describes substances that can effectively kill viruses?

The term that specifically describes substances capable of effectively killing viruses is "virucidal." Virucidal agents are formulated to target and destroy viral pathogens, offering a crucial line of defense in infection control and sanitation practices. These substances are essential in various environments, including medical facilities and personal care, where the transmission of viruses can pose significant health risks.

Disinfectants, while effective in reducing or eliminating pathogens, may not always be specifically tailored to kill viruses, as they encompass a broader category of germicidal agents. Antiseptics are designed for application on living tissues to inhibit the growth of microorganisms, which may include bacteria and fungi but do not predominantly focus on viruses. Sanitizers work to reduce the number of germs to a safe level as deemed by public health standards, but they are not as potent against viruses as virucidal substances are. Thus, virucidal is the most precise term for substances that kill viruses.