Fighting funguses with Nemesis eH2O

Bacteria and viruses are frequently the main targets for disinfection processes. However, fungi can also present a major health hazard, so any decisions relating to disinfection processes and disinfectant choice should also address efficacy against fungi.

The most common fungal diseases are nail infections, vaginal Candidiasis, ringworm, and Candida infections of the mouth, throat, and oesophagus. Fortunately, many types of fungi do not normally cause infections in healthy people but can cause illness in immunocompromised people.

According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the fungal diseases that affect people with weakened immune systems include Aspergillosis, Candida auris infection, Invasive candidiasis, Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP), Candidiasis, Cryptococcus neoformans infection, Mucormycosis, Talaromycosis and Taloromyces.

The Good News

The active ingredient (stabilised hypochlorous acid- HOCl) in Nemesis eH2O is highly effective against fungi.

Independent trials in 2023 have shown a greater than 4 log reduction in test organisms (Candida albicans,

Aspergillus brasiliensis and Saccharomyces cerevisiae) by Hypochlorous Acid at 410ppm (Nemesis eH2O ready-to-use solution is 500ppm).

A further trial with an added interfering substance (to mimic dirt) showed a greater than 4 log reduction at a concentration of around 1000ppm. Please note that Nemesis eH2O is also available at 1000ppm.

Black Mould

Black mould is a type of fungus that looks dark green or black. There are many kinds of black mould, but it is most commonly Stachybotrys chartarum (S. chartarum), which can grow on wallpaper in warm humid conditions.

For most people, exposure to black mould does not cause ill health or death, but can be a problem for those with mould allergies, and can also cause a fungal infection (mycosis) in the airways of those people with a weakened immune system.

In December 2020, two-year-old Awaab Ishak died after prolonged exposure to mould in his home in Rochdale. Following an outcry among tenants, the UK government announced plans to ensure social housing providers in England address hazards such as damp and mould more quickly. A consultation on the proposals closes on 5 March 2024, after which the government says it will bring ‘Awaab’s Law’ into force as soon as practically possible.