Air purifiers to combat viruses and germs – good for colds and the flu?
During the cold season, many people experience the same problem: the air indoors feels stuffy, noses run, immune systems are weakened—and viruses spread rapidly. Since the coronavirus pandemic, many people have been asking themselves: Are air purifiers really effective against viruses, germs, and bacteria? And can they help prevent colds, flu, or COVID-19?
Find out how air purifiers work against viruses and bacteria, which technologies work best – and what factors to consider when selecting a purifier.
Viruses & Bacteria Indoors:
The Invisible Burden on Our Health
We spend around 90% of our time indoors—at home, in the office, at school, or at the gym. The air quality indoors is usually worse than it is outdoors. In addition to fine dust, pollen, and mold spores, indoor air also contains viruses, bacteria, and aerosols that can cause infections. These invisible particles are produced when we breathe, talk, cough, or sneeze, and can remain suspended in the air for hours.
Especially in enclosed spaces without regular ventilation, the concentration of these pathogens increases — and with it, the risk of infection from colds, flu, and other respiratory illnesses.
How long do viruses survive in indoor air?
The lifespan of viruses depends largely on temperature, humidity, and air circulation.
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Influenza viruses can survive on surfaces for up to 24 hours and remain airborne for several hours in dry air.
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Coronaviruses (SARS-CoV-2) can stay infectious in aerosols at room temperature for as long as 3 hours.
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Cold viruses (rhinoviruses) thrive particularly well in the dry, warm air produced by heating — typical during winter.
This makes it clear: the quality of indoor air plays a crucial role in the transmission of pathogens. This is where specialised air purifiers such as OZONOS® can help.
Why Colds and Flu Are More Common in the Colder Months
As soon as temperatures drop, coughing, runny noses, and sore throats become more common.
There are several reasons for this:
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Dry heating air: It dries out the mucous membranes in the nose and throat, making it easier for pathogens to enter.
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Less ventilation: In winter, windows tend to stay closed, allowing viruses to linger longer in the air.
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Close contact: In offices, schools, and public transport, people are in closer proximity — ideal conditions for droplet infections.
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Weakened immune system: Less sunlight and physical activity lower vitamin D levels, which weakens the immune system.
Can air purifiers help against viruses and germs?
Yes — modern air purifiers can significantly reduce the microbial load in the air. However, their effectiveness depends on the technology used. Conventional HEPA filter purifiers can trap viruses but cannot inactivate them. This means that the viruses remain in the filter and may survive there.
In contrast, OZONOS® relies on its innovative UV-C technology, which destroys viruses and bacteria instead of merely collecting them.
Air Purifiers with HEPA Filters vs. OZONOS® with UV-C Technology
HEPA filter air purifiers
Technology
Mechanical filter that captures and collects particles
Effectiveness against viruses
High, but passive (viruses remain active inside the filter)
Maintenance
Regular filter replacement required
Noise level
Can be loud due to airflow
OZONOS® UV-C Air Purifier
Technology
UV-C light generates activated ozone that neutralises viruses and bacteria
Effectiveness against viruses
Very high — viruses are rendered harmless
Maintenance
No filters, completely maintenance-free
Noise level
Quiet operation — also suitable for use in bedrooms
ChatGPT: Air Purifiers for Preventing Colds, Flu & COVID: How to Use OZONOS® Correctly
For the OZONOS® air purifier to achieve its full effectiveness and deliver the desired results, proper use is essential. The device operates with unique UV-C technology that generates activated ozone inside the unit. This ozone neutralises viruses, bacteria, and pollutants in the air — significantly reducing the risk of colds, flu, and COVID-19 in everyday life.
1. Correct Placement
The positioning of the OZONOS® is crucial for optimal air purification. Since warm air rises due to thermal circulation, the OZONOS® air purifier should be installed as high as possible in the room (around 2 metres above the floor) to effectively clean the rising air. Using a wall mount, the OZONOS® can be installed in a space-saving manner — for example, above doors, cabinets, or on room walls
2. Continuous Operation for Consistent Air Quality
The OZONOS® air purifier is designed for continuous operation. Unlike HEPA filters, which only draw in and filter air, OZONOS® cleans the room air permanently and evenly. The device can run all day, as the amount of ozone produced remains below legal limits and is therefore completely safe. Especially in winter, when rooms are aired less frequently, OZONOS® ensures continuously clean air that remains free of viruses and germs.
3. Versatile Areas of Application
Thanks to its compact design and modern appearance, OZONOS® can be discreetly integrated anywhere — it is quiet, energy-efficient, and safety-tested.
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At home: OZONOS® air purifiers are ideal for daily use in living rooms, bedrooms, and children’s rooms. They continuously ensure clean, germ-free air without altering humidity or producing disturbing noise. Especially during cold season, they protect families effectively from the spread of viruses and bacteria within the household.
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In offices: In work environments, OZONOS® helps reduce outbreaks of colds and waves of illness among team members. The air is continuously purified from viruses and germs, helping to maintain high productivity — even in the cold months when many people work together indoors.
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In clinics and medical practices: Particularly in healthcare settings, air hygiene is crucial to protect both patients and staff. The OZONOS® air purifier removes viruses and bacteria from the indoor air, contributing to a hygienically safe environment. At the same time, it neutralises odours and creates a pleasantly fresh atmosphere in waiting areas or treatment rooms.
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In hotels: OZONOS® is the perfect solution for guest rooms, reception areas, or wellness spaces. It discreetly and quietly ensures hygienically pure air while eliminating unpleasant odours such as those from cleaning agents, food, or smoke. This enhances guests’ comfort and promotes a healthy, clean indoor climate — an important quality factor in modern hotel operations.
Ionisation with OZONOS® – Naturally Powerful
The OZONOS® air purifier not only generates activated ozone but also releases negative oxygen ions — those natural “air vitamins” usually found only by the sea, in forests, or after a thunderstorm. These are the recognised benefits of ionised air:
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Negatively charged ions reduce bacteria and viruses in the air.
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Regular exposure to ionised air can stimulate the body’s immune defences.
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Improved air quality enhances concentration and overall performance.
With up to 2,500 negative ions per cm³, OZONOS® creates an indoor climate reminiscent of nature — ideal for preventing colds, flu, and increased viral exposure.
FAQs: Air purifiers and viruses or germs
Yes. HEPA air purifiers merely filter viruses out of the air, while OZONOS® actively neutralises them using its UV-C technology. This ensures clean and germ-free air.
A high-quality air purifier improves the indoor climate, provides fresh air, and reduces the viral load. OZONOS® can help significantly decrease the spread of cold and flu viruses in the air.
HEPA air purifiers capture viruses but do not destroy them. Over time, this can lead to hygiene issues if filters are not replaced promptly. The OZONOS® air purifier, on the other hand, completely eliminates viruses — without filters, maintenance-free, and with lasting effectiveness.