Effect of ozone on the inactivation of indoor airborne viruses with the COVID-19 virus approach: a systematic review

Background: Nowadays, the COVID-19 pandemic has become a global problem that new methods must be used to prevent it. The virus is highly contagious and is mainly transmitted through the air. Ozone is a powerful oxidant that can be used to inactivate a wide range of viruses that may be resistant to other disinfectants. The purpose of this study was to review the use and effect of ozone in inactivating indoor viruses. Methods: To conduct this review study, the keywords such as ozone, virus and air were used to search the PubMed and Scopus databases. Articles were searched from 2010 to 2020. As a result of the search, 57 articles in this field were selected and their content and results were used in this review study.  Results: This review study showed that ozone has been successfully used to prevent several viral diseases such as COVED-19. In addition, some viruses, such as coronaviruses, contain sulfhydryl functional groups containing cysteine and tryptophan that react better with ozone gas. The infected person's sneezing may result in the formation of 40,000 droplets in the air. The droplets can be transferred to the nearest surface up to approximately 2 meters before falling and also may remain in the air for 30 hours. Conclusion: The use of ozone gas has many potential applications in inactivating viruses in enclosed spaces. Given the importance of virus-containing aerosols in the transmission of COVED-19, ozone can be a promising way to prevent the disease. The degree of inactivation of viruses by ozone gas depends on the gas concentration, contact time, temperature, humidity and type of virus. In general, studies in this field have shown the use of ozone gas in preventing the spread of viral diseases such as COVED-19. Necessary safety measures and precautions are also recommended in using this gas.