Reduction of airborne and surface-borne bacteria in a medical center burn intensive care unit using active, upper-room, germicidal ultraviolet (GUV) disinfection.

Significant reductions in air and surface contamination occurred in all rooms and areas and were not associated with variations in outdoor air concentrations of bacteria. The significant decrease of surface bacteria is an unexpected benefit associated with in-room GUV air disinfection, which can potentially reduce overall bioburden.