Medical base layer kills infection-causing bacteria

Under Scrub is a new medical technical base layer that kills the bacteria that cause infection, with the aim of reducing transmission from patient to patient.

Available from Under Scrub, a division of US company Silver Lining Industries, based in Santa Barbara, CA, Under Scrub clothing uses fibeRx yarn technology in the weaving of a protective base layer for men and women that helps fight the spread of hospital acquired infections (HAIs). Products are available exclusively from the firm’s e-commerce site at the website address below.

Jason Katsapetses, founder and chief executive of Under Scrub, says the firm has carried out extensive research and development to create the product, which has ‘superior efficacy against commonly occurring bacteria encountered in both hospitals and the community’.

“Independent test results consistently demonstrate rapid and massive reduction of bacteria within minutes of exposure to our highly technical fabric,” he said.

Under Scrub is made with a polyester core yarn that has been extruded with activated carbon on the surface and nano silver embedded in the yarn, which provide antimicrobial, anti-fungal and anti-odour properties.

The carbon surface attracts and traps the bacteria and fungi, while the nano silver in the micropores neutralises and eliminates the odours associated with these bacteria and fungi. The millions of micropores on the surface of the yarn also absorb moisture on contact, quickly spreading and wicking it to the outer layer of the garment, away from the skin. The nano silver never comes into direct contact with the skin.

Because they are embedded within the yarn, the fibres remain effective for the life of the garment, unlike chemical finishes that are applied topically.

Dr Kevin Young, medical director of Silver Lining Industries, added: “We speculate that this innate antimicrobial ability could dramatically reduce the risk of nosocomial infection and microbial transmission both in the hospital and the community.

“This would reduce risk without any active participation by the healthcare provider wearing our technical fabrics. Unlike hand washing, this product does not require someone following protocol.”