It is widely known that the flu is a threat to everyone’s health. The CDC estimates that the flu has resulted in between 9.3 million and 49 million illnesses each year in the United States since 20101. We often times hear that the flu vaccine is the best approach to avoid contracting the illness, however it is not always effective. There are two main explanations as to why the vaccine may not prevent contracting the flu. One is the overall attributes of the person being vaccinated, such as their age and health. The other is the correlation between the flu viruses currently in the environment and the flu vaccine currently designed to protect our population.
Another way to eliminate the harmful influenza virus is by eliminating it from the environment through ultraviolet light (UV-C) disinfection. With the proper dosage, UV-C kills any organism that the light shines upon. There are even UV-C devices designed to disinfect airborne contaminants such as the influenza virus. The Torch Aire- Recessed™ replaces a 2’x4’ ceiling tile and has the ability to disinfect up to 12,600 cubic feet per hour. Air is pulled into the unit and passed over enclosed UV-C lamps to kill any harmful organism in seconds. The air is then sent through a filter, trapping any large particulates before they have the chance to reenter the space. It is perfect for any healthcare setting thanks to its ability to continuously run while the room is occupied, as well as its ease of placement and its rapid and effective performance.
Learn more about this unit, and other UV-C disinfection devices that can fit any application you may have, by contacting us here or by visiting us at APIC June 12-14 in Philadelphia at booth 1239!
1. www.cdc.gov
