Health & Property

Bacterial infections are becoming increasingly difficult to treat due to the emergence of antibiotic-resistant strains. Overuse and misuse of antibiotics in healthcare settings and agriculture contribute to the development of resistance, limiting treatment options and increasing the risk of treatment failure.

Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) caused by bacteria and viruses are a major concern in hospitals and healthcare facilities. Transmission of pathogens between patients, healthcare workers, and the environment can lead to outbreaks and increase morbidity and mortality rates.

Certain bacteria and viruses have evolved mechanisms to evade the immune system and cause severe illness in susceptible individuals. Pathogens such as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Clostridioides difficile (C. diff), and influenza virus can lead to outbreaks and pose serious threats to public health.

Preventing the spread of bacterial and viral infections in healthcare settings requires rigorous infection control measures, including hand hygiene, proper disinfection and sterilization of equipment, disinfecting the surfaces of the rooms and buildings and isolation precautions. Ensuring compliance with these measures can be challenging due to factors such as resource constraints, staff turnover, and the complexity of healthcare environments.

Addressing these challenges requires coordinated efforts from healthcare providers, public health authorities, policymakers, researchers, and the community to develop and implement effective strategies for infection prevention, antimicrobial stewardship, surveillance, and response to emerging infectious threats.

Q-Field’s™ environmentally friendly and preventive system for disinfection effectively kills bacteria and viruses and prevents the formation of biofilm on surfaces. Our solution Q-Field™ may be applied in hospitals, healthcare institutions, elderly homes, medical practitioners offices, dental offices to mention some.

There are some of the key challenges related to fungi in the property industry:

• Certain types of fungi, such as toxic moulds like Stachybotrys chartarum, can produce mycotoxins that are harmful to human health when inhaled or ingested. Exposure to mould spores can lead to respiratory issues, allergic reactions, skin irritation, and in severe cases, neurological problems.
• Mould growth inside buildings can lead to poor indoor air quality. Mould spores can become airborne and spread throughout the property, leading to respiratory problems and exacerbating allergies and asthma in occupants.
• Fungi can cause structural damage to buildings by decaying wood, drywall, insulation, and other organic materials. Prolonged exposure to moisture, which is often a prerequisite for mould growth, can weaken structural components of a property, compromising its integrity over time.
• The presence of mould and fungi can significantly reduce the value of a property. Mould infestations can deter potential buyers or tenants, leading to difficulty in selling or leasing the property. Moreover, remediation costs and ongoing maintenance to prevent mould recurrence can be substantial.
• Preventing mould growth often requires proactive measures such as maintaining proper ventilation, controlling humidity levels, and addressing water intrusion promptly. Remediation of existing mould infestations can involve professional cleanup services, which can be expensive depending on the extent of the contamination and the affected areas.

In summary, fungi, particularly moulds, present various challenges in the property industry, ranging from health risks and structural damage to legal liabilities and financial implications. Addressing mould issues promptly and effectively is essential for maintaining property value and ensuring the health and safety of occupants.