UV Light being used to disinfect a hospital room (screengrab from YouTube)
The Department of Health (DOH) debunked rumors circulating on social media about the disinfecting power of ultraviolet (UV) light, noting that it is only appropriate in healthcare settings such as inside hospitals and clinics.
Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire explained that there is not enough evidence proving the disinfecting effectiveness of UV lights in any other location.
“Ayon po sa recommendation ng World Health Organization (WHO) tungkol sa cleaning and disinfection, ang mga devices na gumagamit ng UV light para sa disinfection ay angkop para sa healthcare settings,” she said at a briefing.
“Alinsunod sa rekomendasyon ng WHO ay hindi po ito replacement o maaaring pamalit sa manual na paglilinis at pagpupunas at pagtanggal ng mga contaminants mula sa environmental surfaces,” she added.
Vergeire explained that other factors might affect the effectiveness of UV light against contaminants, such as the dose of light and the exposure of the item subject to disinfection.
“Bukod po dito, maaari po itong magdulot ng pinsala sa paningin, skin irritation, pagkasunog, at increased risk for skin cancer kaya’t hindi po namin ito inirerekomenda sa ngayon,” she said.
The DOH strongly recommends the continuous use of alcohol or bleach solutions in disinfecting surfaces. (RJ Espartinez)
