Geelong to participate in study on virus-fighting technology in aged care

THE Victorian government is backing a new world-leading study to assess the effectiveness of germicidal ultraviolet (UV) light technology in reducing COVID-19 and other airborne viruses in aged care facilities.

This initiative includes facilities across Melbourne and Geelong and is a response to the severe impact of the pandemic on aged care settings.

It will be the first time this technology is measured in a clinical study to determine its effectiveness in reducing airborne diseases.

Minister for Ageing Ingrid Stitt said the $16.8 million investment could help protect the most vulnerable Victorians.

“Aged care services are home to some of our oldest and most vulnerable Victorians and this study could help us deliver more innovative and effective methods of keeping residents, staff, and visitors free from illness,” Ms Stitt said.

“This trial is about new ways of reducing illness in our aged care facilities – reducing infections and improving the pressure placed on aged care and hospital workforces during peak COVID-19 and flu season.”

The study, led by the Burnet Institute, will formally commence once the final lights are installed in other facilities over the coming weeks.

The UV technology, which is said to be safe for residents and staff, works by shining an invisible light across the ceiling to neutralise particles of airborne viruses in the room.

Following a pilot last year, the scientific team expects this study to provide a clear answer on whether this technology can improve safety in aged care homes and protect the health of residents, staff, and visitors during COVID-19 and flu peaks.

A successful outcome could lead to a wider rollout of this technology in other health settings.