Covid 19 and UV exposure

[Florida Jim]

Amazon, et al, sell portable UV wands that they say sanitize when use as directed.
I understand that Covid is an RNA virus and, as such, has a lifespan usually measured in seconds if exposed to UV.
First, is my simplistic understand of the science accurate?
Second, if so, would this be a useful tool for cellphones, money, shipping boxes, steering wheels, etc.
Best, jim

 

[Jeff Grossman]

The most-sensible article I found is this. It correlates with other nuggets of info that I've found: the light must hit the thing directly (shadow == no effect) and you have to get the intensity/exposure right. For example, this document, about keeping airports clean, says to expose clothing for 1-2 hours.

Finally, remember not to use UV on you! It is not good for skin, sez WHO on its 'myth busters' page.

 

[Florida Jim]

Thanks Jeff.
I found an article about a hospital machine that costs $67K which is used once patients leave a room, but not much of substance on these portables. I assume that testing has been minimal or done by folks with a bias.
Elsewhere Georg chimed in and, essentially said, hand washing is better.
Best, Jim

 

[georg lauer]

originally posted by Florida Jim:
Thanks Jeff.
I found an article about a hospital machine that costs $67K which is used once patients leave a room, but not much of substance on these portables. I assume that testing has been minimal or done by folks with a bias.
Elsewhere Georg chimed in and, essentially said, hand washing is better.
Best, Jim

Let's put it that way: good handwashing and not touching your face is highly effective, and you still would have to do it even when using the UV.