J M
- Vergeire said that it can cause skin and eye irritation as well as respiratory problems.
- This is after they have received reports that a disinfection robot using UV light caused eye irritation in some people.
With the lockdowns being extended month after month and the COVID-19 cases increasing day by day, people are looking for alternative ways to protect themselves from the virus.
There have been reports saying that a demonstration of a UV disinfection robot took place in Baguio. But instead of assuring people, it just caused them eye irritation.
The Department of Health (DOH) then warned people against the improper use of ultra-violet lamps to disinfect. The agency said that even though the UV light systems have been used in hospitals, it can have harmful effects on people when used excessively and improperly.
“Ang UV light, wala pa ho tayong ganoong ebidensya na talagang sinasabi directly na ito ay makakapagtigil o patay nitong SARS-CoV-2 virus,” said DOH Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire during a virtual briefing.
She added that it can damage a person’s sight and skin. It can also affect the respiratory system if used the wrong way.
“Ito ay maaring makaapekto sa ating mga mata and can even — doon sa severe na exposure — maaaring masira ang cornea ng mata ng isang tao. Pangalawa, maaaring makasunog ng balat. Pangatlo, meron din ho syang effect sa respiratory system sa matagalang paggamit.”
Last week, Vergeire pointed out that there are three types of UV light and it’s still unclear what dosage is needed for disinfection.
“’Pag ginamit sa bahay at ibang lugar, kailangan ng dobleng ingat dahil baka ito ay magkaroon ng harmful effect sa katawan ng tao.”
The World Health Organization (WHO) also warned people about the use of UV light to disinfect hands and other parts of the body.
