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Switch on the light, switch off the flu

anti-viral fabricNC State researchers develop flu-fighting coating that could make your clothing part of your immune system.


Imagine if killing flu viruses and other microbes were as simple as turning on a light. Exposing a unique surface coating to light may in fact hold the key to protecting you from virtually all viruses and bacteria, including the feared avian flu.

Laboratory testing of a novel, permanent coating, developed in collaboration by researchers at N C State University and Emory University School of Medicine, has been shown to kill or inactivate most viruses and bacteria when exposed to visible light. Early tests have shown that the coating kills 99.9 percent of flu viruses.

Maybe you just found your new favorite shirt.