Inappropriate use of ozone generators and their sales status: questionnaire survey of healthcare providers and investigation of online sales

J Hosp Infect. 2021 Nov:117:1-3. doi: 10.1016/j.jhin.2021.07.010. Epub 2021 Aug 8.

Abstract

Ozone generators have attracted attention as a result of the spread of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2. In a questionnaire survey targeting healthcare facilities, 20 (91%) used ozone generators in patient areas, and five (23%) used them in indoor spaces occupied by people. A search for ozone generators on the Amazon Japan website revealed that 76% of products lacked information on ozone emission rate, coverage area and/or use time. These results suggest that ozone generators may be used inappropriately in hospitals and clinics, and have been sold to the general public without adequate information for assessing their safety and efficacy.

Keywords: General public; Healthcare provider; Inappropriate use; Ozone generator.

MeSH terms

  • Air Pollution, Indoor* / analysis
  • COVID-19*
  • Health Personnel
  • Humans
  • Ozone*
  • SARS-CoV-2
  • Surveys and Questionnaires

Substances

  • Ozone