A new device from a UK company can simulate 'fresh air' and eradicate 99.9999% of all pathogenic airborne and surface bacteria and viruses.

The Cirrus3, based on technology designed by Watford-based Tri-Air Developments, has been proven by a government agency to kill airborne viruses and bacteria, including surface MRSA, in a few minutes.

Tri-Air Developments has combined three established decontamination technologies to create an invisible 'defence cloud' that kills germs quickly.

The Cirrus3 has been brought to market by BA Holdings, a company that specialises in air flow management.

Roy Carter, CEO of BA Holdings, said: "There is increasing concern about the transmission of infection in places where people are in close contact. This is where the Cirrus3 comes in - in a few simple steps, the air is literally wiped clean.

"This technology eradicates viruses in places such as hospitals, doctor's waiting rooms, aeroplanes, public transport, hotel lobbies, casinos and cruise ships, which have been plagued by the curse of Norovirus for years. Anyone responsible for places where high numbers of people are confined in relatively small spaces need to give this machine serious consideration."

The Cirrus3 manufactures a stream of hydroxyl radicals, which are found in abundance in the natural environment and destroy harmful bacteria. The device combines UV light with very low levels of ozone and volatile hydrocarbons (given off by plants) to create the active particles.

The Cirrus3 250 is capable of decontaminating a space of up to 350m³. A smaller model for spaces up to 60m³ is in development.