A Japanese study has shown that deep ultraviolet light can weaken the novel coronavirus and reduce its infection capacity by over 99.9 percent.
The research was carried out by the University of Miyazaki in the Japanese city of Miyazaki alongside industrial and medical equipment manufacturers Nikkiso Co Ltd, based in the capital Tokyo.
The joint experiment showed that deep ultraviolet LED, developed by Nikkiso, significantly weakened COVID-19 and reduced its infection capacity by over 99.9 percent, according to reports.
The Japanese firm said that UV LEDs have very few harmful effects on people and the environment, and that has proven effective against allergens in the past.
Nikkiso reportedly uses it in their Aeropure air purifier.
The study involved shining light-emitting diodes on the virus in liquid for 30 seconds, according to reports.
The university said the virus was then left for three days before scientists discovered that its infection capacity had been reduced by over 99.9 percent.
Researchers hope the study will prove useful in preventing outbreaks in medical centres.
Hiroko Inagaki, an assistant professor at the university’s Faculty of Medicine, told local media: “Along with washing our hands and wearing protective clothing, we must combine various items to restore normal life. I hope this helps towards it.”
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Story By: Lee Bullen, Sub-Editor: Joseph Golder,  Agency: Central European News
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