The nonwoven composite fabric of the invention provides a barrier to blood and viral challenges, and also provides breathability for comfort. The fabric is particularly suited for use as a disposable surgical gown. The fabric comprises a first microporous ply comprising a microporous formable resin that has been extrusion coated onto a nonwoven fabric substrate and subsequently stretched to impart microporosity, and at least one additional ply positioned adjacent the first microporous ply. The nonwoven composite fabric has barrier properties passing the ASTM F1671 viral barrier test, and the MVTR of the composite fabric is at least 300 g/m<2>/24hr.