Frequently Asked Questions

Why choose Midwest Pathogend Services?

Our daily mission at Pathogend is to help our communities end the path to infection in the spaces of their lives. We are committed to staying informed on emerging pathogens, infectious disease trends, and the latest technologies available to combat them.

  • Because we offer multiple methods of decontamination, we can offer a service plan individually designed to meet your specific needs and challenges
  • We are environmentally conscious:
    • We are keenly aware that people are increasingly sensitive to harsh chemical residue and odors in the environments and that sensitivity is amplified in contained spaces
    • We utilize the most environmentally friendly products, techniques, and technologies available for your desired outcome
  • We offer the ability to track and document your infection prevention and control efforts, which will aid you in monitoring trends and increasing efficiencies
  • Our extensively trained technicians will insure a service that creates a healthier space for you
  • Our certified technicians provide services driven by protocol with safety and efficacy as top priority

How long will it last?

The lasting results will vary depending on the traffic of your facility. Outbreaks are typically resolved with our treatment but for proactive results, the best outcomes we see are between monthly and quarterly treatments.

What pathogens can your services kill?

There are no limitations as to the pathogens we can kill since each treatment strives for a six log reduction, 99.9999%, of the most difficult to kill bacterial spores, but some more common germs you may have heard of are…

  • C. Diff
  • Staph
  • Flu
  • MRSA
  • Measles
  • Coronavirus
  • Norovirus
  • TB
  • VRE
  • and much more

What techniques do you use?

The best way to answer this is to do a pre-site visit and evaluation. Each treatment is different and will have different needs. Since there is no magic pill to make it all better, we employ multiple types of high-level disinfection equipment and protocols to ensure that you receive the most thorough treatment possible for your needs.

How do I know it’s gone?

The biggest change will be the immediate drop in infection rates. Also we will provide detailed lab analysis proving a zero germ count and detailed reports for your record.  ATP readings, Biological Indicators, and Chemical Strips can all be used as validation methods for each project.  We will provide a full detailed report at the completion of each project providing procedures, photos, recommendations and more.

Decontaminate | Validate | Verify | Report

I only need service in one area of my facility, can you do that?

Our services are scalable, meaning if you only want one area treated, we can do that. If you decide you need more when we get there, we are prepared for multiple scenarios.

How fast till I see results?

Typically our clients see immediate results in infection rates but the outcome will vary depending on treatment area.

Are the chemicals you’re using leaving harmful residues?

No, we only use products that will not form harmful residues. Most companies will want to use a quaternary ammonium to act as a method to continue killing germs. The problem with this is they are sticky and can make future germ reservoirs. They are also easily absorbed through the skin and are known allergens, NIH 2014. Pathogend will never use harmful quats as a residue. Instead, we rely on silver if needed as a natural alternative to help prevent pathogens from making reservoirs in your space.  We offer both a non silver and/or silver based CURoxide (7% H202) when needed for each customers preference.

Can’t I just use quaternary ammonium and bleaches for disinfection?

We are aware of the massive selection of products marketed for disinfection purposes, but there are many pitfalls in depending upon them to successfully and thoroughly eradicate serious infections in often-complicated settings. Notably, many chemicals:

  • are most often applied incorrectly
  • often require a secondary step of rinsing
  • may contribute to resistant strains emerging
  • may corrode surfaces
  • can be toxic to the applicator
  • often leave behind toxic residue and odors
  • can be deadly if mixed

How long will it last?

The lasting results will vary depending on the traffic of your facility. Outbreaks are typically resolved with our treatment but for proactive results, the best outcomes we see are between monthly and quarterly treatments.

Is silver harmful or toxic?

Silver is a natural bio stat. It prevents cells from multiplying by interrupting their DNA/RNA process. You would have to drink over 1 quart of water containing 20 ppm of silver every day for 910 years to become toxic.  **We offer both a SILVER FREE product and SILVER ADDITIVE product**