Does UV Light Kill Germs, Bacteria, and Viruses?

Many people ask the question: Does UV light kill germs, bacteria, and viruses? The technology has been around for over 100 years and has had great success. However, with the emergence of Covid-19, there has been a renewed interest in this decades-old technique for killing bacteria and viruses.

Ultraviolet light technology has been used for years across several industries including airlines, hotels, and cruise companies. It's been proven to be effective at stopping the spread of drug-resistant superbugs and is often used by hospitals to disinfect surgical suites.

Now, other groups are exploring the use of this technology in places like schools, restaurants, and workspaces. The hope is that this tried and true method will also be potent enough to help stop the transmission of coronavirus in public spaces. 

What is Ultraviolet Light?

Ultraviolet light is the region between visible light and x-rays on the electromagnetic spectrum. This particular electromagnetic radiation is not visible to the human eye because it has a shorter wavelength and a higher frequency than the light our brains use to process images. UV radiation can come from both natural sources (sunlight) and artificial sources (lasers, tanning beds, black lights, etc.). 

What are the Different Types of UV?

There are three main classifications of UV radiation based on their level of energy output:

1. UVA Rays - Ultraviolet A rays have higher wavelengths but emit the lowest amount of energy compared to the other subcategories of UV rays. These rays measure between 315-399 nanometers and are not absorbed by the ozone layer. This is the main type of light used in tanning beds. These types of rays are also produced naturally by sunlight.
2. UVB Rays - Ultraviolet B rays have shorter wavelengths than UVA rays, but higher energy output. These rays measure between 280-314 nanometers and are mostly absorbed by the ozone layer, although some can reach the Earth's surface. The majority of tanning beds use a combination of UVA and UVB rays. These types of rays are also produced naturally by sunlight. 
3. UVC Rays - Ultraviolet C rays have the shortest wavelengths and the highest energy levels of the three types. These rays measure between 100-279 nanometers and get completely absorbed by the ozone layer and atmosphere. They are emitted from artificial sources like mercury lamps and welding torches. UVC light is often used to disinfect surfaces and eliminate viruses.

Is Ultraviolet Light Effective at Killing Coronavirus?

Currently, there is no confirmed evidence that UVC light can kill SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. However, there is research to show that it is effective at killing other viruses like the flu. Sometimes called the "germicidal UV", recent studies have also shown that UVC light can kill up to 99.9% of other seasonal coronaviruses that are present in airborne droplets. 

How Does UV Light Kill Germs?

So how does UV light kill germs, bacteria, and viruses? The UVC light damages the RNA of viruses so that they are no longer able to reproduce and infect. The light can also damage the proteins that coat the virus so that it is no longer able to attach itself to a host.

Not all viruses and germs are made the same. Some strains are more resistant than others and may require a high UV dose, while others can be destroyed using a low dose. It may also take a few rounds of treatment to completely disinfect a room depending on the size of the space, the light intensity, and the time of exposure. However, proper handwashing remains one of the easiest ways to limit the spread of coronavirus and other germs and bacteria.

Do UV Light Sanitizers Really Work?

There are a ton of ultraviolet light sanitizing devices on the market that claim to kill germs. Some of them are great, but many of them are fakes. Typically, the cheaper the product, the more likely it is that it doesn't actually work. Since there is no official certification or authorization set forth by the Environmental Protection Agency or any other governmental agency, it can be difficult to tell who's legit and who isn't.

It's also important to watch out for false claims that allege these products are safe for use on humans.

UVC light sources are specifically designed for use on surfaces like countertops, doorknobs, and cell phones. They are never safe for use on humans or pets.

Because UVC light can damage the RNA of viruses, this means that if improperly used they can also damage the DNA inside of human skin cells. UV radiation is classified as a carcinogen to humans, meaning that it can cause certain health conditions such as skin cancer.

Before buying a UVC light device, make sure you do your research. What is the light wavelength? What is the recommended exposure time? Is the product used in any commercial settings? Are there studies to back the legitimacy of the company's claims?

If you can't find the answers to these questions on your own, try reaching out to the manufacturer for answers.

Benefits of the Puritize Handheld UV-C Lamp

UV sanitizers won't take the place of good hygiene practices like hand washing, social distancing, and refraining from touching your face. However, UVC technology is a proven method for sanitizing your everyday items. UV sanitizers can help with cleaning your phone, car keys, water bottles, remote controls, toothbrushes, and more!

While scientists are still researching how to reduce the transmission rates of COVID-19 in public settings, for years UV radiation has been recognized as an effective way to kill the germs and viruses that get millions of people sick each year. 

Puritize has developed a UV-C system that is scientifically proven to kill 99.9% of coronavirus and bacteria that lurk on the surfaces of everyday items in our homes. In just 10 minutes, you can disinfect every nook and cranny of your personal belongings. We use a patented locked storage system to secure your items while our advanced refraction UVC technology kills germs with 99.9% accuracy. Our waffle-like grid design ensures a high bounce of light within the box so that the system cleans your items safely and efficiently.

How Efficiently Does UV Light Kill Germs: Puritize vs the Competition

With Puritize, you no longer have to ask the question: does UV light kill germs? That's because we excel where other products miss the mark. Sanitizing wands give you an incomplete clean and can be harmful to the skin and eyes if used improperly. And unlike other unproven boxes, our UVC output and effectiveness have been scientifically shown to clean all the areas on an item where germs may be hiding.

Ready for a better way to help protect yourself and your family from viruses and bacteria? The Puritize UV-C System is the ultimate sanitizing solution. Place any product into our patented technology and in just 10 minutes, your items are germ-free! You can't afford to take risks with your health and the health of your loved ones. Order your Puritize UV-C system today!