Feature
Tyler Krupa
The use of ultraviolet germicidal irradiation for the disinfection of airborne infectious particles to prevent transmission of
diseases is an old technology that has yet to mature due to a lack of real world testing. Enough has been learned through extensive research and long experience, however, to make the technology useful today
while researchers continue to learn.
Greater knowledge, through ongoing re-
search and closely monitored installations,
may determine conclusively whether
UVGI air-mixing systems can make a ben-
eficial difference in TB control. If proof
can be established in difficult settings such
as homeless shelters that TB spread can be
reduced by UVGI, the technology can be
applied broadly. Clinics, prisons, long-
term care facilities, schools, and public
transportation networks are examples of
sites where this cost-effective strategy
could be applied.