MICROBIOLOGISTS

The Science

Ozone decontamination is evidenced to achieve a 99.9% kill rate against both airborne and surface pathogens, viruses and bacteria. And since the ozone actually destroys bugs through cell lysing, the risk of resistant strains associated with chemical-based decontamination is eliminated.  

Inside the groundbreaking decontamination equipment, water vapour and ionized oxygen are generated and combined to create a powerful microbiocide. Rich in highly active hydroxyl free radicals, the decontamination process takes just one hour to destroy MRSA, c.difficile and other bugs which cause healthcare acquired infections. 

At the end of the decontamination cycle, Meditrox has developed a unique purge process which accelerates the breakdown of remaining ozone in the room. With a completely benign atmosphere restored, certificated by BIBRA, the hospital bed is ready for immediate re-occupation.

 

The Application

The Meditrox 100 can be simply wheeled into the vacated hospital room and armed using a pre-programmed control unit. Once sealed, the conditions in the room are constantly monitored while the dry ozone vapour penetrates all hard surfaces, soft furnishings and critically, the atmosphere itself: the process is highly effective against airborne pathogens like Norovirus and Influenza.

 

The Advantages

Unlike conventional surface decontamination which relies on chemicals such as hydrogen peroxide or chlorine, the Meditrox process does not leave any toxic residue and does not depend on the diligence of cleaning staff.

In comparison with first generation ozone-based decontamination, the Meditrox system does not require highly trained staff to operate the unit and does not leave an ozone-heavy vapour which takes hours to dissipate.

Clinical Trials

Dr Mat Upton supervised trials of the Meditrox system at Manchester University. 

“We simulated a small room scenario and introduced MRSA and C. difficile to the environment,” he explained. “Using the Meditrox equipment to deliver a range of ozone doses, we observed up to a 1000-fold reduction (3 log kill) in cell numbers.” 

When used routinely, ozone decontamination prevents so-called superbugs from returning to treated areas, which is now the subject of sustained trials at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham.