UV radiation to be used as an infection control measure in hospital facilities?
The topic of using UV versus Hepa-filtration as an infection control measure in health care facilities is still very confusing. CDC guidelines for Environmental Infection Control 2003 and especially page 17 up (= p. 31 of 249) clearly state the following: “Because the clinical effectiveness of UV systems may vary, UVGI is not recommended for air management prior to air circulation from airborne isolation rooms. It is also not recommended as a substitute for HEPA filtration, local exhaust of air to the outside, or negative pressure. The use of UV lamps and Hepa filtration in a single unit offers only minimal infection-control benefits over those provided by the use of a HEPA filter alone. Duct systems with UVGI are not recommended as a substitute for HEPA filters if the air from isolation rooms must be re-circulated to other areas of the facility. Regular maintenance of UVGI systems is crucial and usually consists of keeping the bulbs free of dust and replacing old bulbs as necessary. S
The topic of using UV versus Hepa-filtration as an infection control measure in health care facilities is still very confusing. CDC guidelines for Environmental Infection Control 2003 and especially page 17 up (= p. 31 of 249) clearly state the following: “Because the clinical effectiveness of UV systems may vary, UVGI is not recommended for air management prior to air circulation from airborne isolation rooms. It is also not recommended as a substitute for HEPA filtration, local exhaust of air to the outside, or negative pressure. The use of UV lamps and Hepa filtration in a single unit offers only minimal infection-control benefits over those provided by the use of a HEPA filter alone. Duct systems with UVGI are not recommended as a substitute for HEPA filters if the air from isolation rooms must be re-circulated to other areas of the facility. Regular maintenance of UVGI systems is crucial and usually consists of keeping the bulbs free of dust and replacing old bulbs as necessary.
