Can an ultraviolet disinfection lamp kill the COVID-19 virus?

An ultraviolet (UV) disinfection lamp can kill the COVID-19 virus, but there are some important details and limitations you should keep in mind.

UV-A and UV-B radiation are not commonly used for disinfection. UV-A has the least energetic power and UV-B has slightly more energy, but neither is effective enough to kill viruses such as SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19.

UV-C radiation is the most effective for disinfection. It has a wavelength of about 200-280 nanometers and can damage the DNA or RNA of microorganisms, such as viruses and bacteria, causing them to no longer be able to multiply and die. UV-C lamps are widely used in hospitals, laboratories and some public spaces to disinfect surfaces, air and water.

Studies have shown that UV-C radiation is effective at inactivating SARS-CoV-2. There are some important considerations. To be effective, UV-C radiation must come into direct contact with the virus. Shadows or obstacles can reduce its effectiveness. The time required to inactivate the virus varies depending on the intensity of the UV-C radiation and the distance to the surface. In general, only a few seconds to minutes of exposure are sufficient.

Professional UV-C disinfection lamps can be effective in killing the COVID-19 virus, if used correctly. The devices offered to the general public are usually inadequate.

Source: https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/docs/2009-105/pdfs/2009-105.pdf?id=10.26616/NIOSHPUB2009105

Author: Prof. Dr. Dirk Devroey - Latest update: 2022-12-01 - Copyright: Clinifacts 2024