Investigating the safety and effectiveness of far-UVC light to reduce airborne disease transmission
Testing health hazards from implementation of far-UVC irradiation as an intervention technology to reduce airborne disease transmission
This study is looking at a special kind of UV light that could help stop the spread of airborne diseases without harming people, and it's designed for workplaces and other places where germs can easily spread.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10852795 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the use of far-UVC light as a safe intervention technology to reduce the transmission of airborne diseases. By utilizing a specific wavelength of UV light (200-230 nm), the study aims to inactivate pathogens without posing health risks to humans, unlike conventional UV light. The research includes both laboratory and real-world testing to assess the effectiveness of this technology in various settings, particularly in occupational environments. The goal is to provide a new tool for preventing disease outbreaks, especially in light of recent pandemics.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals working in environments with high exposure to airborne pathogens, such as healthcare workers or employees in crowded settings.
Not a fit: Patients who are not in occupational settings or who do not have regular exposure to airborne diseases may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer environments by significantly reducing the transmission of airborne diseases.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with far-UVC light in inactivating airborne pathogens, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Columbia University Health Sciences — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Welch, David — Columbia University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Welch, David
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.