Ultraviolet germicidal irradiation for surface cleaning of COVID-19 in healthcare settings: A review.

Abstract

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic led to the implementation of additional infection prevention and control (IPC) measures. In healthcare settings, the risk of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) infections remains high for patients, healthcare workers, and visitors. Ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI) has been explored as a potential alternative for surface disinfection within healthcare facilities and hospitals.

Aim: This study evaluates the effectiveness of UVGI as a surface cleaning method for COVID-19.

Setting: Healthcare settings.

Method: A systematic literature review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. Databases searched from 01 January 2020 to 31 August 2022, included Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (CDSR), with no language restrictions. Two independent researchers screened and extracted data. Proportions and relative risk were calculated, and the evidence quality was assessed using the GRADE approach.

Results: Three studies were included, all focusing on terminal disinfection of patient rooms. None directly assessed the effect of UVGI on hospital-acquired SARS-CoV-2 infections. One study found UVGI reduced viral contamination post-regular cleaning in healthcare settings (RR: 1.83, 95% CI: 1.02-3.31). Other studies reported complete viral ribonucleic acid (RNA) clearance after 15 min of irradiation at 254 nm and 15 s at 222 nm, respectively.

Conclusion: The evidence on UVGI reducing SARS-CoV-2 contamination on surfaces is of very low certainty.

Contribution: The very low certainty prevents a definitive conclusion on its effectiveness in preventing COVID-19 in healthcare settings. Further research is needed to strengthen the evidence base.