An anti-microbial textile provides protection against the transmission of infection in healthcare facilities is being manufactured in Eqypt, according to an article on the Daily News Egypt website.
The textile integrates silver and metallic silver antibacterial agents that disturbs the cell membrane of any microorganisms that come into contact with it. This mechanism essentially destroys infection-creating microbes, the article said.
The silver technology integrated in the fabrics is already approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Multiple studies have confirmed healthcare apparel, curtains and bed linens are contaminated, and cross-contamination from skin-to-surface occurs, the article said.
The new textile does not lose its antimicrobial efficacy over time. According to test data, the silver induced technology remains effective after 200 industrial washes in actual hospital laundries.