Reducing Dissemination of Viruses from Computer Touchscreens through Patient Hand Hygiene and an Automated Ultraviolet-C Touchscreen Disinfection Device

Abstract

BackgroundComputer touchscreens in patient waiting areas are a potential source for spread of viral and bacterial pathogens in healthcare facilities. Patient hand hygiene is recommended to prevent acquisition of pathogens on hands.MethodsWe tested the efficacy of patient hand hygiene alone or in combination with a novel automated ultraviolet-C (UV-C) touchscreen disinfection device for reduction in dissemination of the nonpathogenic non-enveloped virus bacteriophage MS2 from contaminated touchscreens. Subjects randomized to control, alcohol hand sanitizer (10 or 30 second application), UV-C (30-second cycle), or alcohol hand sanitizer plus UV-C contacted 4 sites routinely used during operation of the touchscreen and then fingerpads were cultured. The log plaque-forming units (PFU) recovered were compared for each group. Patients were observed to determine the frequency of hand hygiene after use of a touchscreen in a waiting area.ResultsAs shown in the figure, the mean log10PFU of bacteriophage MS2 recovered from fingerpads was significantly reduced by each of the interventions (P < 0.001). However, only the combination of hand hygiene and UV-C was effective in completely preventing virus transfer. Of 20 patients observed in a waiting area, 0 (0%) used hand sanitizer that was available adjacent to the touchscreen.ConclusionOur results suggest that use of alcohol hand sanitizer alone or in combination with an automated UV-C touchscreen disinfection device could reduce transmission of viruses from contaminated touchscreens. There is a need for education of patients on the importance of hand hygiene after contact with touchscreens.Figure.Efficacy of hand hygiene (HH) and/or UV-C in reducing recovery of bacteriophage MS2 from fingers after contact with contaminated touchscreensDisclosures All authors: No reported disclosures.