It seems the war against virus infections has escalated this winter and, sadly, it is far from over. Fortunately, it is also far from lost and many care homes are taking the initiative by taking the fight to the viruses. The situation underscores the importance of preventive measures, including vaccination, good hygiene practices, and using technologies like air purification systems to reduce transmission in shared spaces.
Viruses and similar microscopic pathogens find enclosed living spaces such as care homes the ideal environment. Close contact and communal living make spread and infection easier. Controlling viral spread in these settings is critical, especially when dealing with vulnerable individuals such as the elderly or those with underlying health conditions.
Viruses, such as influenza and norovirus, can spread through direct person-to-person contact, contaminated surfaces, and airborne particles. In a care home, shared spaces like dining areas, communal lounges, and hallways facilitate the movement of airborne particles expelled when infected individuals cough, sneeze, or even talk. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), respiratory droplets that carry viruses can remain suspended in the air for significant periods, particularly in spaces with inadequate ventilation.
Viruses can survive on surfaces like handrails, doorknobs, and medical equipment for hours or even days, and these surfaces can then act as reservoirs for infection. Add to this that carriers can be asymptomatic and show no signs of infection, and you have a scenario where even the most careful of visitors and staff may be constantly re-filling these reservoirs and the air with pathogens.
In environments like care homes, where physical distancing can be challenging and residents may have weakened immune systems, the spread of viruses poses serious health risks. To mitigate these risks, facilities need to adopt comprehensive strategies that include frequent cleaning, hand hygiene, ventilation, and the use of innovative technologies such as ozone generators.
Ozone (O₃) is a naturally occurring gas composed of three oxygen atoms. It is a powerful oxidising agent with proven antimicrobial properties, making it highly effective at inactivating viruses, bacteria, and fungal spores. According to research published in Applied and Environmental Microbiology, ozone disrupts the outer protein shell of viruses, rendering them inactive and unable to replicate.
Ozone generators, like the Eclipse Pro from Ozofresh UK, utilise this property to sanitise air and surfaces in enclosed spaces. By releasing controlled amounts of ozone, these devices can neutralise pathogens that are otherwise difficult to reach with conventional cleaning methods. This is particularly advantageous in care homes, where high-touch areas and shared facilities are at constant risk of contamination.
The Eclipse Pro is designed to operate efficiently in various settings, offering a chemical-free solution for reducing the presence of harmful microorganisms. Its ability to eliminate bacteria and fungal spores adds an extra layer of protection, making it a versatile tool for infection control.
Care homes face unique challenges when it comes to infection control and maintaining a comfortable living environment. The rapid spread of viruses in closed spaces underscores the importance of adopting advanced technologies like ozone generators to complement existing hygiene practices. The Eclipse Pro from Ozofresh UK offers a reliable and versatile solution for reducing viral transmission, eliminating bacteria and fungal spores, and controlling odours throughout the year.
By incorporating ozone technology into their cleaning protocols, care homes can create safer, fresher, and more hygienic spaces for residents and staff alike. As the need for effective infection control continues to grow, innovations like the Eclipse Pro are paving the way for healthier living environments in even the most challenging settings.
In addition to its antimicrobial capabilities, the Eclipse Pro excels at controlling odours, a common concern in care home environments. Issues such as incontinence can result in persistent unpleasant smells that are challenging to manage with traditional cleaning methods alone. Ozone is highly effective at breaking down odour-causing molecules at their source, leaving the air fresh and free from lingering smells.
So, not only will it help with your virus protection regime, but it will also have an additional return in your investment in terms of controlling odours such as incontinence.
Unlike air fresheners, which merely mask odours, ozone permanently neutralises them by chemically altering the molecules responsible. The Eclipse Pro offers a year-round solution for maintaining a clean and comfortable environment for both residents and staff. By addressing odours related to incontinence, cooking, and general habitation, it enhances the overall quality of life in care homes, contributing to a more pleasant and hygienic atmosphere.
In instances where persistent odours may affect the CQC and visitor perceptions of a facility leading to lower occupation, it could prevent thousands in lost revenue.
For more information about the Eclipse Pro and its benefits, visit Ozofresh UK.