The methodology of microbiological evaluation of disinfectants is permanently being questioned because the laboratorial protocols do not correspond to the real conditions under which these products are used. In 1985 the Use-Dilution method of AOAC was adopted in Brazil for microbiological qualification of chemical disinfectants for commercial purposes. Domestic disinfectants are tested in this way against Salmonella choleraesuis and Staphylococcus aureus ATCC strains, was chosen for this evaluation Vibrio cholerae in view of its current importance in Brazil, in terms of Public Health associated with the study of the disinfectant's antimicrobial activities. Nineteen disinfectant products for domestic use for available to the public were evaluated microbiologically by means of simplified Use-Dilution test with 10 carriers. The active compounds of the products included formaldeyde, phenols, cresols, quaternary ammonium compouds, chlorine and ethanol. Seven were mixtures of these. According to the recommendations for their use, sixteen products should be used undiluted. Under these conditions, 9 disinfectants were vibriocides and 7 did not demonstrate this antibacterial activity. Four products in dilutions not clearly specificated were also ineffective. The vibriocide products which must used without dilution were tested again, diluted at 1:2. These solutions did not inactivate V. cholerae showing that, microbiologically, their active compounds are used in limited concentrations. Commercial alcohol (95.5°GL) at 1:3, chlorine 2.8% Água sanitária at 1:200 and Lysoform at 1:20 came up to the standards required by the test.
Disinfectants; Vibrio cholerae; Microbiological evaluation