Key Points
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Far-UVC light can kill viruses in the air without hurting people.
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It could help stop the spread of illnesses like COVID-19, flu, and future pandemics.
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Scientists are testing it in real places like hospitals, clinics, and cafes.
THURSDAY, April 10, 2025 (HealthDay News) – Five years after COVID-19 first spread in the U.S., scientists are already working on ways to stop the next big virus.
One idea they’re looking at? A special kind of light called far-UVC, according to CBS News.
This light is different from regular UV light, which can be harmful to the skin and eyes. Far-UVC has a shorter wavelength, which means it can kill germs in the air without hurting people.
"UV light doesn’t care if it’s a virus or bacteria – it kills all of them," said physicist David Brenner from Columbia University.
Right now, researchers are testing far-UVC lights in real-life places like:
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A nightclub in Boston
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A dental clinic at Columbia University
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A rehab center at Mount Sinai Hospital
They are using special test rooms to see how well the lights work. These rooms let them control the air, moisture, and measure how much virus is in the air before and after using the lights.
"The progress has been slow but steady," Brenner said.
The CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) says far-UVC looks like a promising tool, but we need more research to be sure it’s completely safe and effective.
Dr. David Putrino, a professor at Mount Sinai in New York, added far-UVC lights to a rehab center.
"We looked at all the research, and it helped us feel confident that it's safe," he said.
Experts believe far-UVC could help fight viruses that spread through the air, like COVID-19 and flu. It might even help if a virus like bird flu starts spreading among people.
"We know another pandemic will happen," said Brenner. "We’re hoping far-UVC can help us stop it early."
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