False: Ozone sterilization can be used as a protection against the COVID-19 infection.

By: Madhukar PB
May 8 2020

Share Article:

No, ozone sterilization cannot be used as a protection against the COVID-19 infection as it does not effectively remove viruses.A message went viral on social media that, ozone sterilization can be used as protection against the COVID-19. The U.S Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), has cautioned against the of use of ozone generators in occupied spaces. It said when it is used at concentrations that do not exceed public health standards, ozone applied to indoor air does not effectively remove viruses, bacteria or other biological pollutants. The U.S Food and Drug Administration (FDA) report only recommends the use of sterilizers to reduce the risk of viral exposure for patients and health care providers from COVID-19. The report also said it believes that certain sterilizers, disinfectant devices, and air purifiers falling within the scope of this guidance may help reduce this risk of viral exposure based on the current understanding of these devices and COVID-19. Currently, there are no reasons and evidence available to believe that ozone sterilization will protect us from COVID-19. Moreover, the World Health Organisation or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in its guidelines has not suggested ozone sterilization as a medical treatment against COVID-19. The COVID-19 pandemic has given rise to a lot of potentially dangerous misinformation. For reliable advice on COVID-19 including symptoms, prevention and available treatment, please refer to the World Health Organisation or your national healthcare authority.