Antimicrobial copper helps combat healthcare-associated infections

Healthcare-Associated Infections (HCAIs) place a significant burden on healthcare systems across the globe. In the EU, approximately four million people annually acquire a HCAI and approximately 37,000 die. HCAIs are caused by antibiotic-resistant organisms spreading from healthcare environments to schools, public spaces, sports facilities, mass transit, food hygiene premises and other. Despite consistent infection control policies focusing on thorough hand-washing and routine cleaning, infection rates remain unacceptably high, so relevant policies and measures need to be improved.

Due to its unique qualities and broad-spectrum antimicrobial efficacy, Antimicrobial Copper is recognized as the new weapon in the fight against pathogenic microbes. It can significantly reduce contamination from frequently touched surfaces. In fact, it is the only touch surface material that can continuously kill more than 99.9% of the bacteria causing HCAIs within two hours of contact, even between cleanings. This is because Antimicrobial Copper kills bacteria by rupturing a bacteria’s outer membrane and weakening its cells, thus stopping a cell’s key functions.

SOURCE

Professor Tom Elliott Consultant Microbiologist University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust

https://www.southampton.ac.uk/news/2008/10/hospital-trial-shows-copper-reduces-contamination.page

More information is available at www.copperalloystewardship.com.