We think of phototherapy for skin or jaundice. But UV light also kills germs — bacteria, viruses, even drug‑resistant superbugs. The phototherapy market forecast shows that germicidal lamps are a small but fast‑growing segment, driven by the pandemic and the rise of antibiotic resistance. Hospitals use UV‑C robots to disinfect rooms, reducing C. diff and MRSA infections.

What's new? Upper‑room UV‑C — fixtures that disinfect the air without exposing people, used in homeless shelters and schools. Also, UV‑C wands for personal use (though safety concerns remain). The phototherapy market analysis notes that the fastest‑growing region is Asia‑Pacific, where air quality is poor and tuberculosis is common.

But UV‑C is dangerous to eyes and skin. That's why devices must have safety sensors and shields. And not all UV‑C wavelengths are equally effective — 254nm mercury lamps work, but 222nm far‑UV may be safer.

The takeaway: germicidal UV won't replace soap and vaccines, but it's a powerful tool in the infection control toolkit. Expect to see more of it in hospitals, planes, and even your office.