Self-reported Side-effects of Ultraviolet-C Disinfection Devices

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Consumer Safety
• Ophthalmology

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic led to increased use of portable UV-C devices for SARS-CoV-2 inactivation.
• Existing research on UV-C side effects like photokeratitis and erythema is primarily based on limited case studies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate self-reported side effects associated with portable UV-C devices.
• To analyze the reliability of self-reported side effects and explore alternative explanations for reported symptoms.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of five waves of UK consumer survey data (April 2020-December 2021, N=26,864).
• Detailed examination of Wave 4 data (N=309) to assess inconsistencies in reported side effects.
• Consideration of psychosomatic effects and misattribution of symptoms.

Main Results:

• 30%-46% of UV-C device owners reported experiencing a side effect.
• Analysis revealed inconsistencies between reported side effects and plausible effects from direct UV-C exposure.
• Awareness of device warnings supported the hypothesis of misattributed symptoms.

Conclusions:

• Self-reported side effects from UV-C devices may not accurately reflect direct injury or irritation.
• Limited reliable data exists for risk assessment of UV-C exposure from current self-reporting surveys.
• Future data collection should reduce recall bias through shorter investigation periods, empirical measures, and respondent incentives.