Journal of Antivirals & Antiretrovirals
Open Access

Abstract

Considerations in Using Consumer Ultraviolet and Artificial Light Products for Decontamination of Facemasks

Jason K Middleton*, Lloyd P Hough

The COVID-19 pandemic led to nationwide shortages in a variety of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) especially those items used in a healthcare setting. These shortages impacted communities in every part of the country leaving healthcare, law enforcement and public safety personnel, without critically needed PPE to protect themselves and their families. Methods to conserve critical PPE through extended use or reuse were provided as options for healthcare personnel with decontamination being one approach used to enable reuse of PPE. Decontamination for reuse of N95 Filtering Facepiece Respirators (FFRs) focused on the use of Vapor Phase Hydrogen Peroxide (VPHP), moist heat and Ultraviolet Germicidal Irradiation (UVGI) which are effective in inactivating coronaviruses and other microbes.

Published Date: 2023-05-02; Received Date: 2022-01-17