Design and feasibility of a novel personal protection device against airborne pathogens for everyday use

Airborne viruses, such as SARS-CoV-2, influenza, and potentially emerging avian influenza, are a major cause of disease spread. Airborne disease outbreaks have increased by 35 times in the past 20 years. These viruses are particularly a concern for immunocompromised individuals worldwide. ActivAir is a patented novel reusable personal protection device designed to provide a pathogen-free personal air supply. Ambient air is passed under UVC light inside a small, enclosed chamber before being released as a gentle breeze over the face of the user. Feasibility tests with a prototype disinfection chamber of the device showed a 99.99 % efficiency in a single-pass deactivation of aerosolized Phi X 174 bacteriophage, and over 96 % efficiency in deactivating aerosolized MS2 bacteriophage, both are known surrogates for SARS-COV-2, influenza, and other airborne viruses. High-efficiency UVC LEDs consume low enough energy to make this battery-powered device wearable and easy to use, lasting several hours on a single charge. This device holds a promise of providing efficient everyday protection for immunocompromised patients today, as well as a new line of defense for everyone in case of a future pandemic.