Role of ultraviolet (UV) disinfection in infection control and environmental cleaning

Infect Disord Drug Targets. 2013 Jun;13(3):191-5. doi: 10.2174/1871526511313030007.

Abstract

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is capable of disinfecting surfaces, water and air. The UV technology was used for many years. However, safer and more effective delivery systems of UV radiation, make it a very useful option for disinfection. Effective disinfection of environmental surfaces is a key step in the prevention of spread of infectious agents. The traditional manual cleaning is essential in assuring adequate elimination of contamination. However, terminal cleaning is frequently suboptimal or unpredictable in many circumstances. UV-C radiation is an adjunctive disinfectant new technology that could kill a wide array of microorganisms including both vegetative and spore forming pathogens. The technology is getting more affordable and has produced consistent reproducible significant reduction of bacterial contamination.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cross Infection / microbiology
  • Cross Infection / prevention & control*
  • Disinfection / instrumentation*
  • Equipment and Supplies, Hospital / microbiology*
  • Evidence-Based Medicine*
  • Humans
  • Infection Control / instrumentation*
  • Microbial Viability / radiation effects
  • Operating Rooms
  • Patients' Rooms
  • Ultraviolet Rays*