Ultraviolet-C mediated inactivation of Candida auris, a rapid emerging health threat

Area of Science:

• Infection Control
• Microbiology
• Environmental Hygiene

Background:

• Health care-associated infections (HAIs) are a major patient safety concern, especially those caused by multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs).
• Candida auris (C. auris) is an emerging MDRO fungus identified as an urgent threat due to high mortality and challenges in control.
• Effective disinfection strategies are crucial for preventing the spread of C. auris in healthcare settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of 254 nm ultraviolet-C (UV-C) light in inactivating C. auris on hard surfaces.
• To determine the time required for significant C. auris reduction using UV-C disinfection.
• To assess the potential of UV-C light as an adjunct infection control measure against MDROs.

Main Methods:

• A mobile UV-C disinfection tower with high-performance bulbs was utilized.
• Experiments were conducted in a patient-room-sized test chamber.
• The inactivation rate of C. auris on hard surfaces was measured after UV-C exposure.

Main Results:

• UV-C light achieved ≥99.97% (≥3.86 log10) inactivation of C. auris.
• This high level of inactivation was accomplished within 7 minutes of continuous exposure.
• The study demonstrated significant efficacy in a simulated clinical environment.

Conclusions:

• 254 nm UV-C light is highly effective in inactivating C. auris on hard surfaces.
• UV-C disinfection can be implemented as a supplementary measure to combat HAIs caused by C. auris and other MDROs.
• Adopting UV-C disinfection protocols can enhance patient safety and mitigate the threat of MDROs in healthcare facilities.