The death rays that guard life
8 hours ago
- #airborne diseases
- #public health
- #UV technology
- Historical context of waterborne diseases and the introduction of water disinfection methods like chlorination and filtration.
- Comparison between waterborne and airborne diseases, highlighting the lack of large-scale interventions for airborne pathogens despite their significant mortality rates.
- Introduction of germicidal ultraviolet (UV) light as a potential solution for disinfecting indoor air, with a focus on far-UVC light (222 nanometers) which is safe for humans but lethal to pathogens.
- Historical development and setbacks of germicidal UV technology, including initial success in reducing infections in hospitals and schools, followed by decline due to the advent of antibiotics and concerns over skin and eye irritation.
- Modern advancements in far-UVC technology, including its safety profile, effectiveness in reducing airborne pathogens, and potential to revolutionize indoor air quality.
- Challenges and limitations of current air cleaning methods like ventilation and filtration, including energy costs, noise, and practicality in different climates and building types.
- Economic and logistical barriers to widespread adoption of far-UVC, including the lack of certification standards, high costs of quality lamps, and the public goods nature of pathogen-free air.
- Early adopters of far-UVC technology, such as Mount Sinai Hospital, and the potential for broader adoption if economic and regulatory hurdles are addressed.
- Vision for the future where clean air is as universally expected as clean water, drastically reducing the burden of airborne diseases like tuberculosis, coronaviruses, and seasonal flu.