Ultraviolet Technology Shown to Protect Elderly from Respiratory Infections

Technology that harnesses ultraviolet light (UV) to kill airborne viruses has been shown to significantly lower the number of respiratory infections in aged care facilities, according to Flinders University.

Adapted by scientists from Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute (FHMRI) and SAHMRI, the technology is based on using germicidal ultraviolet (GUV) appliances which purify the air with UV-C light rays and deactivate harmful microorganisms like viruses and bacteria.

The new study published in JAMA Internal Medicine trialed commercially available GUV appliances in aged care facilities in Australia and found they reduced rates of viral respiratory infections in vulnerable, older adults by more than 12%.

Though older people are particularly vulnerable to acute respiratory diseases, this technology could be hugely significant in reducing the burden of viral infections in other contexts and in helping prepare for future pandemics.

The trial-tested, commercially available LAF Technologies GUV appliances can be mounted to ceilings or walls or fitted into ventilated AC systems and are harmless to people. Moreover, they have already proven to reduce levels of airborne pathogens in laboratory and hospital settings.