Do you remember the pandemic? Of course you do—we all do, and not fondly, I might add! But one silver lining was that it lit a fire under some very bright minds to rethink how we handle infection control, including the potential role of ultraviolet air treatment in reducing airborne viruses in shared spaces.

For several years now, researchers have looked into germicidal ultraviolet (GUV) appliances as a way to cut down on the spread of acute respiratory infections (ARIs). The concept sounds promising, especially in common areas of senior living communities where residents often gather. But does it really deliver?

Unfortunately, the results of a recent randomized clinical trial published in JAMA Internal Medicine paint a more modest picture. While the GUV lights didn’t significantly reduce the incidence rate of ARIs, they did lead to a small but measurable reduction in the total number of cases. The full study, titled Germicidal UV Light and Incidence of Acute Respiratory Infection in Long-Term Care for Older Adults, dives deeper into the methodology and findings.

So what should communities take away from this? According to researchers in a related commentary, Can Upper-Room UV Light Prevent Nosocomial Respiratory Viral Infections?, the technology might be a useful supplement to—but not a substitute for—strong infection control practices. That means going back to basics: encourage staff to stay home when feeling ill, use masks when unsure, and follow proper hand hygiene. And don’t forget the importance of vigilance—spotting subtle changes in residents’ condition early can make all the difference.

Ultraviolet air treatment may have a place in our toolkit, but it’s not the magic bullet some hoped for. As respiratory illness season creeps in, doubling down on education, early detection, and proven protocols remains our best defense.

Stay well and stay informed!