Efficacy assessment of the new MWHI blue light technology against relevant healthcare-associated microbial pathogens

Abstract

Background: The importance of the hospital environment as a source of nosocomial pathogens and, therefore, potentially lethal healthcare-associated infections, has motivated the search for improved high-efficacy no-touch disinfection technologies. Multiwavelength high intensity blue light is an innovative environmental disinfection system that has already been used for cleanrooms, laboratories, and healthcare facilities. Aim: The main objective of this study was to assess the efficacy of distinct MHWI blue light exposure cycles against a wide range of healthcare-associated pathogens, grown on different hospital surface and equipment materials. Methods: MWHI disinfection technology was used against ESKAPE pathogens and three distinct Candida species inoculated on five different surface materials frequently used in healthcare settings: formica, linoleum, inox, PVC and napa leather. Four exposure cycles were tested. Colony forming units (CFUs) counts were determined before light exposure (T0) and at each timepoint using contact plates. Findings: MWHI blue light technology resulted in a significant reduction of relevant healthcare-associated pathogens grown on multiple surface materials. Conclusion: MWHI blue light technology effectively reduced survival of common healthcare-associated pathogens across various surface materials. Considering its safety profile for continuous use, this technology promotes environmental decontamination and, when combined with manual cleaning, significantly reduces microbial burden in healthcare settings.