Could UV Lights Protect Hospitals Against the Next Pandemic?

New UV Technology Shows Promise in Air and Surface Decontamination

A presentation at the ESCMID Global Congress reveals that experts are exploring the potential of far-UVC, a type of ultraviolet (UV) light, to enhance safety in indoor spaces, particularly healthcare settings. Far-UVC has shown the ability to eliminate viruses and bacteria without the risks associated with conventional UV light, making it a promising solution for decontaminating air and surfaces.

Dr. Curtis Donskey from the Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center in Ohio discusses ongoing efforts to develop far-UVC technology for clinical settings at the ESCMID Global Congress. He highlights the urgent need for improved disinfection methods in light of persistent global health threats, such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the spread of healthcare-associated infections.

The Promise of Continuous Decontamination

Traditional cleaning methods often fall short in maintaining sterile environments, with surfaces quickly becoming re-contaminated between cleanings. Far-UVC technology presents a potential solution by providing continuous decontamination of occupied spaces. Unlike conventional UV light, which can harm skin and eyes, far-UVC has a shorter wavelength (222 nm) and poses no risk to human tissues.

Studies have demonstrated that far-UVC light effectively eliminates pathogens, including SARS-CoV-2, influenza, and drug-resistant bacteria, without the risk of microbial resistance. Initial tests in real-room environments have shown a significant reduction in infectious airborne viruses, highlighting the potential of far-UVC technology to enhance infection control measures.

Safety Considerations and Commercialization

While far-UVC shows promise, safety concerns and regulatory considerations must be addressed before widespread adoption in clinical settings. Studies are ongoing to assess the long-term safety and potential ozone emissions associated with far-UVC technology. Several companies are already marketing far-UVC devices, with early adopters reporting positive results in healthcare settings.

Dr. Donskey emphasizes the importance of evaluating intermittent delivery of far-UVC for decontamination, which would activate only when rooms are empty, minimizing exposure risks. This approach could facilitate the adoption of far-UVC technology in clinical areas while safety data continues to be gathered.

Far-UVC technology represents a significant advancement in infection control, offering a potential solution to combat future pandemics and healthcare-associated infections. As research progresses, far-UVC has the potential to revolutionize disinfection practices and enhance patient safety in healthcare settings.