The influence of gaseous ozone on the growth of fungi isolated from clinical and environmental samples

Background: Disinfection is performed in our laboratory using sodium hypochlorite, glutaraldehyde, alcohol, or hydrogen peroxide. All these products are known for their harmful side effects on human and ecological health. As a part of the search for new sterilization methods that respect the environment much more, we were interested in studying the antifungal activity of ozone gas on the most isolated fungi in our hospital “University Hospital Center Hassani Abdelkader of Sidi Bel Abbes”. Methods: This study focused on the antifungal activity of gaseous ozone on the most common fungal isolates in the hospital, with consideration of the duration of the exposure to ozone. Results: The fungicidal effect of ozone gas on molds was more effective compared to its effect on yeasts, it makes it possible to inhibit the reproduction and fungal growth of molds, in particular the filamentous molds and the most commonly isolated dermatophytes. A longer exposure would seem to be more effective. Conclusion: Ozone gas can be a new alternative for sterilization and disinfection techniques, especially filamentous fungi and dermatophytes.