UV-C Light Completely Blocks Aerosol Transmission of Highly Contagious SARS-CoV-2 Variants WA1 and Delta in Hamsters.

ABSTRACT: Behavioral and medical control measures have not been effective in containing the spread of SARS-CoV-2 in large part due to the unwillingness of populations to adhere to "best practices". Ultraviolet light with wavelengths of between 200 and 280 nm (UV-C) and, in particular, germicidal ultraviolet light, which refers to wavelengths around 254 nm, have the potential to unobtrusively reduce the risk of SARS-CoV-2 transmission in enclosed spaces. We investigated the effectiveness of a strategy using UV-C light to prevent airborne transmission of the virus in a hamster model. Treatment of environmental air with 254 nm UV-C light prevented transmission of SARS-CoV-2 between individuals in a model using highly susceptible Syrian golden hamsters. The prevention of transmission of SARS-CoV-2 in a

SUBMITTER: Fischer RJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9437662 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature