Is ‘FAR UVC’ the Nearest Solution for Pandemic Containment?

Abstract

The devastating COVID-19 pandemic has brought many challenges for the scientific commune. Containment of infection becomes paramount when the agent is novel with little or no management options. The present one is one such and no one is sure how many more will surface in time to come. This emphasizes on exploring broad-based containment options as an important preparedness plan. Ultraviolet (UV) rays known for their germicidal effect are in the voyage as potent disinfectants for long. But their potential health hazards limit their uses to a controlled environment. Of them, Ultraviolet ray C (UVC) is the most potent broad-spectrum germicidal, that can neutralize all forms of Corona viruses with the reported accuracy of 99.9%. Recent researches have supported that a fraction of this Ultraviolet ray C (UVC) (FAR UVC) in the electromagnetic range of 207-222 nanometers demonstrates non-damaging properties for mammalian tissues while retaining the germicidal potency. This article reviews the available evidence and reports their important observations. The knowledge base so generated can guide researchers to test its credibility in diverse situations and come out with lasting solutions for future challenges.