Reduce Virus Transmission With Ozone

As winter approaches, it’s time to start thinking about measures you can take to limit the impact of common viruses that spread quickly during the colder months. UK health officials have warned of a possible 'tripledemic' – of flu, Covid-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and have highlighted the need for people to get their flu vaccinations. What’s more, the emergence of a new Covid variant, ‘XEC’, adds to the need for heightened awareness. 

Air quality is one of the most effective factors in controlling the spread of viruses. While warmer weather allows for open windows and natural ventilation, this is less feasible in the winter months when it’s windy, rainy and cold. But one possible way to reduce virus transmission in settings such as care homes is through the use of ozone. Previously we have looked at the role of ozone in tackling odours, and in this post we’ll explore ozone’s ability to reduce viral transmission.

Ozone is created when an ozone generator modifies oxygen (O2) into ozone (O3). The third oxygen atom makes ozone unstable, and this instability is key to its effectiveness in neutralizing viruses. 

Ozone particles attach to organic material in the air, including viruses. Because ozone is heavier than air, it settles on surfaces and interacts with airborne pathogens. As the ozone reverts to regular oxygen, it disrupts and neutralizes the pathogens it encounters, rendering viruses inactive and eliminating odours.

Healthcare settings with vulnerable people present a unique challenge when it comes to infection control, due to residents' weaker immune systems. While total virus prevention is difficult, ozone generators like the Ozofresh Eclipse Pro provide several advantages:

• Superior disinfection: Ozone can reach and neutralise pathogens in areas that are difficult to clean, such as crevices and porous surfaces.
• Eliminating airborne contaminants: Ozone oxidises airborne contaminants, improving overall air quality by tackling viruses, bacteria, and mould
• Odour reduction: Ozone neutralises odours caused by bacteria and organic compounds, helping facilities maintain high air quality standards in line with Care Quality Commission requirements
• Cost-effective: Ozone reduces the need for a large range of cleaning products and helps you streamline disinfection processes, making it a practical and economical solution

It’s important to note that in care settings, especially for elderly or otherwise vulnerable populations, ozone is not a one-size-fits-all solution. However, it remains a highly effective part of a multi-step approach to infection control – research has found that ozone reduces the viral load, helping to significantly limit transmission. 

The Eclipse generators from Ozofresh are safe for use in empty enclosed spaces. The resident should be removed from the room, then the generator can start and the room should be left locked. With different time cycles available, the Eclipse Pro works in a 3-stage process: 

1. It produces a specific amount of ozone based on the selected time cycle 
2. The ozone tackles pathogens and odours, breaking down their molecular structure
3. The ‘ozone destruct’ converts any residual ozone back to oxygen and the resident’s room is safe to occupy once more. 

Smaller Ozofresh products such as the Aura Wall-Mounted Air Purifier and the Air Purifier Plug In release low levels of ozone, primarily for odour control, and meet Health & Safety Executive guidelines for safe use around people.

Boost your disinfection protocols with ozone products from Ozofresh – shop the full range today.