In 1937, researchers William and Mildred Wells conducted a groundbreaking experiment at an elementary school to combat airborne pathogens. While UV light was known to kill bacteria on surfaces, the Wellses theorized that infectious diseases could linger in the air for hours. They created 'radiation chambers' in classrooms where UV rays would blast the air to kill off pathogens, marking a significant advancement in combating airborne illnesses.
Airborne diseases kill millions of people a year, despite available antibiotics and vaccines. But scientists think there might be another solution to fighting these diseases, one that harnesses the power of light.
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