UV light can kill COVID-19 virus without harming people, says study

TOKYO: In a significant breakthrough, researchers from Hiroshima University have discovered that using Ultraviolet C (UVC) light with a wavelength of 222 nanometres (touted as safer to use around humans) effectively kills the Covid-19 virus. The researchers have published their study in the American Journal of Infection Control.

Ultraviolet light of wavelengths between 200 and 280 nm is known as ultraviolet C light, of UVC. The researchers from the Hiroshima University have said that using 222 nm UVC light is "safe" around humans.

As per reports, an in vitro experiment, 99.7 per cent of the Covid-19 causing SARS-CoV-2 viral culture was killed after a 30-second exposure to 222 nm UVC irradiation. Tests were conducted using a UVC lamp.

To conduct the experiment, the researchers put a solution containing the virus onto a plate. They allowed it to dry before placing the UVC lamp 24 cm right above the surface of the plates containing the SARS-CoV-2.

It is pertinent to mention that wavelength of 222 nm UVC cannot penetrate the outer layer of the human eye and skin. However, 254 nm UVC germicidal lamps harm exposed human tissues, and can only be used to sanitize empty rooms. 254 nm UVC germicidal lamps are being increasingly used in disinfecting healthcare facilities.

The safety and effectiveness of 222 nm UVC irradiation in killing SARS-CoV-2 viruses in real-world surfaces should be evaluated further, said the researchers.

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