December 2020

Why UV Light Air Purifiers are Essential for Flu Prevention

Flu season is upon us. Influenza results in more than 200,000 hospitalizations and thousands of deaths per year. Are you doing everything you can to protect your loved ones from the flu?

UV Air Purifier: A new tool in the flu prevention arsenal

There are four key flu prevention tools recommended by Dr. Wladyslaw Kowalski, PhD, PE, one of the foremost experts and authors on airborne infection control, and Dr. Bryan Stone, MD, Internal Medicine and Nephrology, Chief of Medicine for Desert Regional Medical Center.

Chances are you’re already aware of three of these tools: vaccination, following careful hygiene and sanitation protocols and avoiding contact with obviously infected individuals.

What you may not know, however, is that there’s a powerful new tool in the flu prevention arsenal: UV light air purification, a pathogen-destroying technology found in air purifiers such as the RxAir UV Light Air Purification System. UV light air purification addresses airborne viruses, filling the gap left by the surface disinfection and hygiene protocols.

How UV light air purification fills the gaps left by other prevention tools

While vaccination decreases total exposure to flu viruses and protects people from certain strains, Dr. Stone explains that “it is impossible to produce a flu vaccine that will protect recipients against all strains because there are hundreds of strains that constantly mutate.”

UV light air purification technology, on the other hand, can destroys all airborne flu virus strains, including those that aren’t covered by current vaccines. It also reduces exposure for everyone in the room, whether they’ve been vaccinated or not.

Sanitation protocols, like spraying disinfectant on frequently touched objects and surfaces, can only do so much. The flu virus is commonly spread by coughing, sneezing or talking, which create tiny droplets that carry the virus and land in nearby individuals’ mouths, noses and eyes. As Dr. Kowalski notes, “Other people in the room are exposed to infection by the simple act of breathing, regardless of any sanitization that already occurred.” He adds that “pathogen-destroying UV air purifiers are the best way to combat the airborne pathogens on a continuous basis.”

The RxAir is the ideal choice among filterless UV air purifiers

“It is important to choose an air purifier that is proven by independent EPA- and FDA-certified laboratories to destroy viruses and bacteria, as there are many ineffective, low-cost systems that lack sufficient UV light intensity, UV exposure time or air flow rates,” says Dr. Kowalski. “Alternatively, air purifiers with high-efficiency HEPA filters effectively trap, but do not kill, the pathogens. However, when filters become full, the live pathogens may be re-circulated in the air, plus the consumer likely will be exposed to them when the filters are changed.”

The RxAir is the ideal choice for individuals looking to add a UV Air Purifier to their flu prevention arsenal. Its filterless UV technology (that’s right – no HEPA filters!) has been proven in independent EPA- and FDA-certified laboratory testing to destroy on first pass more than 99% of flu and other harmful viruses and bacteria that cause the cold, MRSA (staph), strep (whooping cough), TB, measles, pneumonia and a myriad of other antibiotic-resistant and viral infections.

This flu season, keep your home, school and work environment as flu-free as possible. Let the RxAir fight the flu so you don’t have to.

These Household Items That Cause Indoor Air Pollution May Surprise You

These Household Items that Cause Indoor Air Pollution May Surprise You

When your indoor air quality is compromised, you risk experiencing uncomfortable symptoms – or even falling seriously ill. Unfortunately, there are many causes of indoor air pollution, and some of these go unrecognized and may even be present in your home.

In today’s post, we’ll examine a few surprising items in your home that could be reducing the quality of your air:

Carpets – Many new carpets contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which, when inhaled, can cause people to suffer from headaches, dizziness, nausea, fatigue, difficulty breathing and other potentially serious symptoms. And, even low-VOC carpets have the tendency to collect VOCs, dust mites, pet dander and other particulates.

Furniture – Certain types of furniture may contain formaldehyde, a colorless gas that can make people feel sick or uncomfortable when present in the air at levels exceeding 0.1 ppm – and has even been linked with cancer.

Non-Stick Pans – Non-stick pans, such as Teflon, can release toxic chemicals that have been known to kill small family pets and cause people to develop flu-like symptoms.

Ozone-Producing Air Purifiers – It seems counterintuitive that an air purifier could actually worsen indoor air pollution, but the truth is that air purifiers that emit ozone can be hazardous to people’s health. Fortunately, the RxAir® is an environmentally friendly alternative that doesn’t produce any ozone.

It’s important to do whatever you can to keep the air in your home clean and safe. In addition to eliminating more than 99% of airborne bacteria and viruses, the RxAir’s catalytic germicidal UV technology effectively reduces concentrations of odors and VOCs.

RxAir Vs. Air Duct Cleaning: Which Is the Better Investment

RX Air vs Air Duct Cleaning Which is the Better Investment

Indoor air pollution is a growing concern among Americans, and it’s easy to understand why. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has ranked indoor pollutants one of the top five environmental risks to public health, signifying that this is an important issue that deserves our collective attention.

In a recent white paper, we outlined some of the common examples of indoor air pollution – including volatile organic compounds, mold and bacterial contaminants – and explained that numerous health complications can arise from consistent exposure to these pollutants.

Understandably, this leaves many homeowners wondering what they can do to ensure that their home is safe – but it’s important for these individuals to understand the best course of action.

Is air duct cleaning an effective solution to indoor air pollution?

Chances are you’ve seen advertisements promoting air duct cleaning as an effective solution to indoor air pollution. According to the EPA, “these services typically — but not always — range in cost from $450 to $1,000 per heating and cooling system.”

But is it really worth the money?

While there are some scenarios in which air duct cleaning is a smart choice – say, if your ducts are infested with vermin or if there is substantial mold growth or dust accumulation – the EPA reports that in most cases there is little evidence to suggest that air duct cleaning is worth the money.

Let’s take a look at the EPA’s explanation:

“Duct cleaning has never been shown to actually prevent health problems. Neither do studies conclusively demonstrate that particle (e.g., dust) levels in homes increase because of dirty air ducts or go down after cleaning. This is because much of the dirt that may accumulate inside air ducts adheres to duct surfaces and does not necessarily enter the living space. It is important to keep in mind that dirty air ducts are only one of many possible sources of particles that are present in homes. Pollutants that enter the home both from outdoors and indoor activities such as cooking, cleaning, smoking, or just moving around can cause greater exposure to contaminants than dirty air ducts.”

The case for the RxAir Air Purification System

If you’re really concerned about getting sick from indoor air pollutants, consider investing in an RxAir as an alternative to having your air ducts cleaned. The RxAir is half the cost of some air duct cleaning services and has the evidence to back up its effectiveness.

The RxAir has been independently lab tested by an FDA- and EPA-certified laboratory, with results confirming that it destroys more than 99% of airborne bacteria and viruses on a first-pass basis and reduces concentrations of odors and volatile organic compounds.

Unlike a one-time air duct cleaning, the RxAir works continuously to destroy pollutants, cleaning the air in an average-sized bedroom up to six times per hour.

The bottom line: Before you pay to have your air ducts cleaned, consider the RxAir as a better long-term investment – one that has been scientifically proven to kill potentially harmful bacteria and indoor pollutants that can be harmful to your family and pets.

Reduce Your Exposure to Airborne Diseases and Harmful Pathogens

Airborne diseases, such as tuberculosis, measles, influenza, strep, MRSA, pneumonia, and the common cold are emitted when infected individuals (even those who aren’t showing symptoms) exhale, cough, sneeze, sing or talk. Very tiny droplets that carry the disease viruses and/or bacteria can be inhaled into the lungs or land in the mouths, noses or eyes of people who are nearby and begin to infect their new host by overwhelming their immune system. Less often, a person might become infected by touching an object that has an infectious virus or bacteria on it and then touching their mouth, nose or eyes. In 2014 MIT researchers completed a study on gas clouds related to coughs and sneezes, funded by the National Science Foundation The study found:

Infectious pathogens in the cough or sneeze gas cloud stayed suspended in the air longer than originally thought
The smaller droplets that emerge from a cough or sneeze can travel 5 to 200 times further than if those same droplets moved as unconnected particles. (not in a cough or sneeze cloud)

This new finding makes the quality of air we breathe even more important when you consider the average person breathes about 3,000 gallons or 388 Cu ft of air everyday. Put into real life situation consider this scenario where an infected person walks into your office that’s an average room size of 12” x 12” x 8”, to tell you something, coughs or sneezes and then leaves.

A 12’ x 12′ x 8′ room = 1,152 Cu ft
A 1,152 Cu ft room holds 8,617 Gallons of air. (Not Oxygen, important)
The average person breathes 3,000 gallons of air a day. So, 3,000 / 24 hours = 125 Gallons of air breathed into the lungs every hour.
A typical work day of 8 hours means (8 Hours x 125 Gallons Air/ Hour) = 1,000 Gallons of air breathed while at work or put another way 12% of the 8,617 Gallons of air in the room.

How do you like your chances of not getting sick from breathing 12% of the air in the room knowing the infectious pathogens can travel up to 200 times further than previously thought, from just one sneeze? This make the air quality we breath on a daily basis even more important for sickness prevention. Less often, a person might become infected by touching an object that has an infectious virus or bacteria on it and then touching their mouth, nose or eyes.

How Hospitals Combat Airborne Disease

“Hospitals have been using UV light air purification systems for years as an effective means to reduce exposure to airborne diseases in their facilities. Now consumers, schools and business have access to this same powerful technology in a convenient floor unit,” stated Bryan Stone, MD, Internal Medicine and Nephrology, Chief of Medicine for Desert Regional Medical Center. “Unfortunately, most consumers aren’t aware of this technology because it has only recently become available to consumers and non-healthcare businesses.” Dr. Stone noted, “The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has done an excellent job educating consumers about vaccination and following careful hygiene and sanitation protocols for airborne infection prevention and it is now time for them to add UV air purification into their list of recommended preventive measures as consumers finally have access to UV Air purification devices that FDA and EPA-certified laboratory test data verifies as effective in inactivating a broad array of airborne diseases.”

Preventing Airborne Infections

Dr. Stone emphasized, no single measure is 100% effective in preventing the spread and transmission of airborne infections. However, by employing these four preventive measures, you can minimize your own and your family’s exposure:

UV air purification (only devices proven to be effective in EPA- and FDA-certified laboratories, such as RxAir)
Vaccination
Following careful hygiene and sanitation protocols,
Avoiding contact with obviously infected individuals

RXAIR the trusted air purifier choice of hundreds of hospitals is available for purchase online as well as at participating retailers . Interested in taking the extra steps towards reducing airborne transmission of diseases? Read more: Why A UV Air Purifier is Essential in Preventing the Flu.

Protect Cancer Patients With UV-C Light Air Purifiers

Chemotherapy treatments for cancer weaken patients’ immune systems. UV-C light air purifiers play a critical role in protecting patients by removing viruses, bacteria, mold and fungi pathogens from the air. Normally our bodies fend these off with ease but with a weakened immune systems this can cause serious, life-threatening illnesses for cancer patients.

Many oncologists recommend that patients receiving chemotherapy use air purifiers in their homes as one of the precautions to lower their risk of infection. Most hospitals employ UV light air purification systems throughout their facilities, but particularly in areas serving patients with weakened immune systems from cancer, AIDS, transplant medication or other conditions. Now, the same UV light air purifier technology employed in hospital air purification systems is available to consumers in an affordable, room-size unit for use in homes, classrooms and offices.

The RxAir® Air Purification System has been independently tested by an EPA- and FDA-certified laboratory, with results confirming that it effectively destroys more than 99% of airborne bacteria, viruses, including the flu, pneumonia, strep, MRSA, TB, measles, the common cold and more.

RxAir also reduces odors and Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), an added benefit for cancer patients who often become more sensitive to smell and suffer from nausea triggered by odors and VOCs.

Not all UV light air purifiers are created equal. You’ll want to consider the following factors to ensure you purchase an air purifier that effectively inactivates dangerous pathogens and protects your health:

the intensity of the UV light
the proximity of the pathogen to the light
length of time to which the pathogens are exposed to the UV-C light
whether the fan is powerful enough to circulate the air in a given space through the air purifier at least three times an hour
choose a non-ozone producing UV light air purifier
avoid ionizer air purifiers, as they produce ozone

For more information on what to look for in effective air purifiers, see the article: Do UV air purifiers really work?

UV Light Air Purifiers are Tested and Proven to Work

Endorsed by Leading Hospital Infection Control Expert!

Because RxAir has passed rigorous testing for effectively reducing airborne pathogens, RxAir has been tested by Dr. Wladyslaw Kowalski, a leading authority on aerobiological infection control and UV germicidal irradiation (UVGI) who hundreds of hospitals turn to for advice on hospital infection control. He has written “Hospital Airborne Infection Control,” “Aerobiological Engineering Handbook: A Guide to Airborne Disease Control Technologies,” and numerous whitepapers that many consider as the definitive industry guides on the subject.

Do UV Air Purifiers Really Work?

Yes, SOME UV air purifiers really work. Numerous health studies have shown that UV-C light in a specific wavelength and duration very effectively inactivates viruses, bacteria, mold, mildew and fungi by breaking down their DNA or RNA, leaving them unable to perform vital functions or reproduce. UV light also is helpful in prevention of secondary allergies related to airborne allergens. However, not all UV air purifiers are the same, nor are all effective. Many make false or exaggerated claims. RXAir® is one of the few that can back its claims with hard data.

Independent research studies and rigorous testing in EPA- and FDA-certified labs validate that RxAir’s ViraTech ultraviolet germicidal irradiation technology destroys germs, bacteria, viruses, and reduces VOCs (volatile organic compounds) and odors. RxAir disinfects the air and inactivates a wide range of bacterial and viral pathogens as has been conclusively demonstrated in independent laboratory tests.

RxAir has been by Dr. Wladyslaw Kowalski, a leading authority on aerobiological infection control and UV germicidal irradiation (UVGI) who has written numerous papers and books ^[1] that many consider as the definitive industry guides on the subject.

RxAir is a powerful UV air purifier that destroys more than 99% of airborne bacteria and viruses, such as the flu, (including H1N1), multiple Coronavirus strains (including SARS and the common cold), pneumonia, MRSA, strep, TB, measles and the common cold. RxAir kills bacteria that can make it difficult to sleep, and helps protect those who suffer from respiratory conditions or a weakened immune system by reducing their exposure to harmful pathogens. RxAir effectively reduces odors, indoor pollutants, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

How UV Air Purifiers Work

The four key factors to the effectiveness of UV light at inactivating airborne pathogens in a room are:

UV-C Light Exposure Time. The dwell time, or length of exposure, of pathogens to UVGI for approximately a half second causes sufficient damage for inactivation. RxAir is so effective because its 16” high intensity germicidal UV-C lamps and ViraTech kill chamber allow for extended exposure time. RxAir draws contaminants through the kill chamber where the turbulence inside forces contaminants close enough to at least one of the three UV-C lamps long enough for inactivation..
UV-C Intensity and Wavelength. The optimal UV-C wavelength for UV germicidal irradiation (UVGI) is 254 nanometers. RxAir employs high intensity UVGI lamps at 254 nm to inactivate or kill the pathogens as they move through the chamber.
Proximity to the UV-C light. RxAir’s ViraTech kill chamber is specially designed to keep harmful bacterial and viruses in close contact to the UV-C light for the appropriate duration for inactivation.
Air Changes per Hour (ACH). of an air purifier determines how many times the device can exchange the whole volumetric air from a specific sized room in an hour. The more times a device can exchange the air within the room, the cleaner and fresher it will stay. RXAIR can clean a 800 sq. ft. room up to six times in an hour (ACH 6X).

With many UV air purifiers, insufficient UV lamp intensity, proximity and dwell time make pathogen inactivation improbable . For example, a 6″ lamp creates less dwell time and less of a chance for inactivation than a 16″ lamp. The question to ask is how many purifiers have sufficient lamp intensity and keep contaminants close enough and long enough for inactivation.

Conclusion: YES, RxAir and Some UV Air Purifiers Really Work

RXAIR is one of the few UV air purifiers that really does work. Unfortunately there are many dubious UV air purifier products that make exaggerated claims about their ability to kill/inactivate pathogens and the size of the space they can service. Consumer Reports has even warned consumers about companies making unfounded claims.

RxAir has gone through numerous tests in EPA and FDA certified labs and the results support our claims of effectiveness at inactivating 99% of most viruses and bacteria on first pass. For this reason, RxAir’s technology is used in hundreds of hospitals in some of the most sensitive of environments. The powerful UVC light in every RxAir processes the air in an 800 sq. foot room three to six times per hour to help reduce your exposure to pathogens and keep it fresh and safe for you and your loved ones. It is safe to say UV air purifiers work.

UV air purifier myths vs facts

Myth – UV air purifiers cannot kill bacteria and viruses

Fact –The effectiveness of UV light at inactivating viruses and bacteria has been well documented scientifically for decades. In fact, the CDC recommends UV light as a supplemental hospital infectious control method for hospitals on pathogens such as TB^[3]. RxAir employs the same technology used in UV air purifiers in hundreds of hospitals to keep you and your loved ones safe from airborne pathogens

Myth – bacteria and viruses aren’t exposed to UV lights long enough to kill them

Fact – MOST UV air purifiers blow air quickly past UV lights without sufficient exposure time and proximity to inactivate the harmful pathogens. Many also use UV lights that are too weak to be effective. However, RxAir uses a patented chamber that includes a system of baffles to create turbulence that brings the pathogens in close proximity to its three powerful 24-watt UV-C lamps for an extended time, resulting in inactivation of more than 99% of pathogens on first pass and reduction in VOCs and odors.

Myth – UV air purifiers produce harmful ozone

Fact – There are UV air purifiers that produce ozone, but RxAir is NOT one of them. RxAir uses an ozone block that prevent ozone emissions.

Some people confuse ionizer air purifiers with UV air purifiers. RxAir is NOT an ionizer. An ionizing air purifier’s corona discharge produces ozone, a known irritant of the lungs and respiratory system. Many states including California, Minnesota, and Texas have published guidelines on air purifiers that produce ozone.

Myth: HEPA air filters are adequate against bacteria and viruses.

Fact: Many dangerous viruses are smaller than 0.1 micron and can pass through the typical HEPA filter. HEPA filters trap, but do not necessarily kill live pathogens. HEPA filters may accumulate viruses, bacteria and fungal spores over time, exposing the people to a literal petri dish of pathogens and allowing the opportunity for them to be reintroduced to the area during filter changes. HEPA systems also circulate air over live viruses and, if the filter is not sealed tightly, leaks may occur whereby live pathogens could be recirculate into the air.

^[1] “Ultraviolet Germicidal Irradiation Handbook: UVGI for Air and Surface Disinfection”
^[2]“Aerobiological Engineering Handbook: A Guide to Airborne Disease Control Technologies.”
^[3]Public Health Reports. Association of Schools of Public Health, Jan. 2010. Web. 15 June 2015.

Dialysis and the Dialysis Air Environment

The following was written by Dr. Bryan Stone, a Nephrologist at Desert Regional Medical Center.

When dialysis was first brought on the scene for people with kidney failure, it was so high tech that is was not fully available to all who needed it. God committees helped choose patients who were worthy of therapy in an effort to appease the lack of availability. The technology advanced to the point where is became more widespread and along with this came the development and evolution of dialysis centers. These centers provide this life saving therapy to many people at once while establishing a safe environment with proper nurse oversight and enhanced water systems.

In an effort to maintain a highly monitored environment, the centers developed with a central nursing station that has an easy view to each patient receiving therapy. Patients now dialyze in large treatment areas with common floors, lighting, and air systems. Given this, it becomes clear that patients need special protections due to potential sharing of personal information, blood products, and air. These centers have become highly monitored and therefore have established numerous protocols to prevent blood exposure or inadvertent information sharing. This population is highly susceptible to injury from inadvertent sharing of their comorbid illnesses or transfering that can occur upon exposure to blood products. It is as important to consider the inadvertent sharing of air. Air carries easily transmitted pathogens as well as inhaled particulate matter. Unfortunately, this exposure is not only invisible but may create harm after some delay, making it difficult to prevent, monitor, and treat.

In flu season, the TV ads, hospitals, and healthcare providers implore their patients to get flu shots. Surely, everyone has come across this widespread movement starting in October annually. This illustrates have critical air transmission of illness can be. Keep in mind that this movement described is only for flu and does not mention pneumonia, bacterial infections, measles, H1N1 or others. The dialysis population is not only highly susceptible, but they have a higher chance of dying upon exposure. They may also have repetitive exposures as they share the air of the dialysis persons sitting near them three times per week. Of course, one should wash his hands and wear a mask when sick.

Ultraviolet Light Air Purifiers Can Make a Difference

There are now effective virus inactivating air systems such as RXAIR UV Air Purifier that can add meaningfully to the armamentarium. These systems effectively diminish one’s exposure to airborne pathogens in the immediate area. I feel that these interventions can be critical for susceptible populations. There are a number of additional ideal locations such as doctor’s waiting rooms, infusion centers, and operating rooms. Just because one cannot see viruses does not mean they are unimportant.

5 Ways to Protect Yourself From the Flu

With flu season right around the corner, it’s time to begin thinking about how to protect yourself from this and other common cold-weather diseases, illnesses and infections. Here are a few helpful tips to keep in mind.

Get a flu vaccine – The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone 6 months of age or older get a flu vaccine as soon as the current season’s vaccines become available. This is especially important for people at high risk of flu complications, including children, pregnant women, individuals 65 years of age or older and individuals who suffer from chronic health conditions.

Run an air purifier – You can keep the surfaces in your home clean with disinfectants, but it’s also important to consider the air you’re breathing. Most modern homes are so airtight during the cold-weather months that airborne bacteria and viruses can easily become trapped indoors. The RxAir Air Purification System is one of the best lines of defense against the flu, destroying more than 99% of the flu virus on the first pass.

Control humidity levels – According to CNN, “homes kept at 40-60% relative humidity are likely to have fewer flu viruses lingering in the air and on surfaces like sink faucets, door handles and countertops.” If the air inside your home is dry, consider using a cool mist humidifier, which can also help relieve congestion and coughs.

Keep your hands clean – Did you know that approximately 80% of infectious diseases are transmitted by touch?

Think about all the objects you touch throughout the day once you leave the house: doorknobs, stairway railings, shopping carts, etc. According to the CDC, washing your hands is one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent the spread of germs.

Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth – Every time you bite your nails or rub your eyes, you could be increasing your chances of getting the flu, as this is one of the main ways that a virus can enter your system. Keeping your hands clean helps, but try to avoid touching your face just to be safe.

By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying a healthy winter!