top cx logo
cx logo
Explorearrow down
search icon

Coronavirus: Care home decontamination unit on trial

Designers say specially developed booth at retirement home in southeast France can eliminate 99.999% of viruses

A trial of a coronavirus decontamination unit at a care home in southeast France is proving a hit with staff and residents.

Since November 16, visitors and staff at the Figanières retirement home in the Var have had to enter and remain in the booth for 30 seconds before they head into the building.

Inside, the temperature rises to 75C - the booth's designers say that this eliminates 99.999% of viruses.

"We found that at 75 degrees for 30 seconds, we destroyed the virus," says Patrice Casse, distributor for the company La Hanse.

"It is reassuring to think that each member of the staff who will enter will go through the decontamination airlock. All clothes, inside the ears, the nose, everything is decontaminated," said the home's director Marie-Jeanne Languillat.

The purpose of the trial at the home is to establish public perception of such a device - using it is not compulsory. Visitors and staff still observe all usual protocols, including social distancing, wearing facemasks and using hand sanitiser. The home has reported no cases of Covid-19 since the start of the pandemic, Franceinfo reports.

Resident or second-home owner in France?
Benefit from our daily digest of headlines and how-to's to help you make the most of life in France
By joining the newsletter, you agree to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy
See more popular articles
The Connexion Help Guides
featured helpguide
Healthcare in France*
Featured Help Guide
- Understand the French healthcare system, how you access it and how you are reimbursed - Useful if you are new to the French healthcare system or want a more in-depth understanding - Reader question and answer section Aimed at non-French nationals living here, the guide gives an overview of what you are (and are not) covered for. There is also information for second-home owners and regular visitors.
Get news, views and information from France