To provide a method and a composition for making a film or a formed article which has a biostatic or biocidal surface.

The composition contains polyvinyl alcohol in combination with a biocide which is a plasticizer, or in combination with a biocide and a compatible plasticizer. For example, the biocide is a quaternary ammonium compound. The biocide forms a complex with the polyvinyl alcohol. The combination has been heated to above its melting point. The composition has a surface which remains biostatic or biocidal for at least 7 days. A hot melt of the composition may be cast or applied as a film or a coating or may be extrusion-molded or otherwise into an article. Volatiles formed during heating may be removed from the combination for example by low pressure.