Cypress, California (September 2020) – A pioneering research study led by Dr. Hiroki Ohge, Professor in the Department of Infectious Diseases at Hiroshima University Hospital, and Dr. Takemasa Sakaguchi, Professor at Hiroshima University Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, has demonstrated that filtered 222nm UV-C light can effectively reduce SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19.
This study marks the first global research effort focusing on the efficacy of 222nm UV-C light against SARS-CoV-2.
Study Overview
The groundbreaking study utilized Ushio’s Care222® UV-C disinfection module, which was positioned 24 cm above the viral samples on plates. The radiation intensity at the surface was measured at 0.1 mW/cm². Findings revealed that an exposure of 3 mJ/cm² of 222nm UV-C light achieved at least a 99.7% reduction in viable SARS-CoV-2 samples. These results confirm the effectiveness of 222nm UV-C irradiation in reducing the virus and suggest its potential application in both occupied and unoccupied spaces for infection prevention and control.
How Care222® Works
Ushio’s Care222® device employs a sophisticated band-pass filter, a result of advanced research from Columbia University. This filter is designed to block longer UV wavelengths, ensuring the emitted UV-C light remains at the 222nm wavelength, which is effective for disinfection but safe for humans and animals.
Benefits of 222nm UV-C Light
- Non-Harmful to Humans: Unlike conventional UV-C light, which can cause skin damage and eye irritation, 222nm UV-C light is absorbed only by the dead outer layer of skin cells (the stratum corneum) and does not penetrate deeper tissues. This means it does not cause sunburn, skin cancer, or cataracts.
- Effective Sterilization: UV-C light at this wavelength disrupts the DNA and RNA of viruses and bacteria, rendering them inactive and preventing their replication. This makes it a potent tool for sterilizing surfaces and air.
- Broad-Spectrum Efficacy: 222nm UV-C light is effective against a wide range of airborne microorganisms. Unlike vaccines, which target specific pathogens, UV-C light can inactivate various strains and variants, including those that are drug-resistant.
Applications of Care222® Technology
Care222® technology is poised to be a valuable asset in a variety of settings, particularly in public spaces where the risk of airborne diseases is high. The technology’s ability to provide continuous disinfection while being safe for human exposure makes it suitable for:
- Healthcare Environments: Hospitals, dental offices, and medical rooms can benefit from reduced infection rates and improved patient safety.
- Educational Institutions: Schools and classrooms can utilize Care222® to maintain a healthier learning environment.
- Public Spaces: Stadiums, sports grounds, offices, and other high-traffic areas can employ Care222® to limit the spread of seasonal infections, tuberculosis, and other major epidemics.
Future Implications
The successful results of this study suggest that 222nm UV-C light technology, exemplified by Ushio’s Care222® devices, could become a standard tool in infection control strategies. By integrating Care222® into various environments, we can enhance our ability to manage and mitigate the spread of infectious diseases, contributing to a healthier public environment.
For further information on Ushio’s Care222® technology and its applications, visit www.care222.com.