Active not recruitingNot ApplicableInterventional

Testing an artificial intelligence tool to reduce the spread of airborne infections in hospitals

This study is testing a new computer tool, called AISaT, that uses artificial intelligence to help hospitals find the best ways to reduce the spread of airborne infections, like colds or flu, through the air. It focuses on using simple solutions like air filters, fans, and screens. The study will check how well AISaT's advice works in different hospital areas, such as outpatient clinics and wards, to make the air safer. Researchers will use special devices to measure tiny particles in the air to see if the recommendations help reduce them. This research aims to improve air quality in hospitals and protect both patients and staff.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Phase

Not Applicable

Sponsor

University College London

Enrolment target

4,848

Start

05 Jan 2026

Estimated completion

27 Jul 2027

Airborne disease transmission in hospitals

What is this study about?

This study is looking at an exciting new tool called AISaT, which uses artificial intelligence (AI).

Think of AI as a very smart computer program that can learn and solve problems. Here, AISaT has been designed to help hospitals reduce the spread of airborne infections. These are illnesses that can travel through tiny droplets in the air, similar to how a cold or flu spreads when someone coughs or sneezes. The tool suggests simple, affordable solutions like using air filters, fans, or screens to improve the air quality in different hospital areas.

The main goal of this study is to see how well AISaT's advice actually works in real hospital settings. Researchers want to make sure that its recommendations genuinely help to make the air safer and lower the risk of infection for everyone, including patients, visitors, and hospital staff.

Key takeaways

Tests an AI tool to reduce airborne hospital infections.
Uses simple solutions like filters and fans to improve air.
Aims to make hospital air safer for patients and staff.
Involves measuring air particles and gathering feedback.
No medical treatments or direct health risks involved.
Funded by a UK government research body (NIHR).

Who may be eligible?

You might be able to take part in this study if you are a patient or a visitor in certain outpatient clinics, day-case rooms, or hospital wards where the study is taking place. Hospital staff, like doctors and nurses, in these areas can also participate.

There are some groups who won't be able to join. This includes children under 18 years old. Also, the study will not be carried out in areas like maternity wards, children's wards, or mental health units. This is to make sure the study avoids complex situations around getting permission to take part, especially for vulnerable patients.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you 18 years old or older?
Will you be in an outpatient clinic room, day-case room, or general ward bay?
Are you NOT in a maternity, children's, or mental health ward?
Are you comfortable with air quality measurements being taken in the room?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you take part, the study will involve measuring air quality in the hospital rooms you are in. Small devices will be placed in the room to release harmless saltwater droplets into the air, and other devices will measure these particles to see how well AISaT's suggestions (like using air filters or fans) are working. They will be measuring the amount of tiny droplets in the air near clinicians. You might also be asked to fill out questionnaires or take part in short interviews about your experience or thoughts on the air quality. The study is planned to run from January 2026 to September 2027.

Potential risks and benefits

One potential benefit of taking part is that the hospital areas involved in the study may have improved air quality because of the new strategies being tried. This could mean a lower risk of catching airborne infections for everyone in those spaces. The main risk identified is a tripping hazard if any equipment, like air safety devices or their wires, is not placed carefully and blocks walkways. You are always free to ask questions or change your mind about participating at any time.

Locations (2)

Some site locations are approximate. We're improving this — please verify with the trial team before travelling.

University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
City only
London, England
East and North Hertfordshire Teaching NHS Trust
City only
Stevenage, England

Common questions

What is an 'airborne infection'?

An airborne infection is an illness that can spread through tiny droplets in the air, like when someone coughs or sneezes. Examples include colds, flu, and chickenpox.

What is AISaT?

AISaT stands for 'Artificial Intelligence air Safety Tool.' It's a special computer program that uses smart technology to suggest ways hospitals can make their air safer and reduce infection spread.

Will I have to do anything special if I take part?

Mostly, you'll just be in the hospital areas where the study is happening. You might be asked to fill out a questionnaire or have a chat, but no medical treatments are involved.

Are there any risks to my health?

No, there are no direct health risks. The main risk is a small chance of tripping over equipment if it's not placed properly, but researchers will work to prevent this.

Who is paying for this study?

The study is funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR), which is a major health research funder in the UK.

How to find out more

Laurence Lovat

l.lovat@ucl.ac.uk +44207679 9083 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.