The Use of Engineering Controls to Disinfect Mycobacterium tuberculosis and Airborne Pathogens in Hospital Buildings

AbstractNosocomial infections are a major problem in many hos pital buildings, with approximately 10% of patients ac quiring such an infection during a hospital stay. Airborne transmission is one of the important routes for a number of nosocomial pathogens. To combat this problem there are a number of engineering control strategies, such as the use of ultraviolet germicidal irradiation and ad vanced ventilation techniques, which can be used. This paper outlines the'state of the art' in air disinfection, and reviews recent research work in this field.