Bioaerosols and their health effects

Kraiwuth Kallawicha, H. Jasmine Chao, Pokkate Wongsasuluk, Nawhath Thanvisitthpon

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapter

Abstract

Bioaerosols are crucial indoor air pollutants often neglected by occupants unless serious contamination exists. They originate from living organisms, including microorganisms (i.e., fungi, bacteria, and viruses), arthropods (i.e., dust mites, cockroaches), house pets, and humans. Fungi and bacteria are common bioaerosols observed in the indoor environment. Bioaerosols may cause adverse health outcomes to occupants that range from simple allergic symptoms in the respiratory tract, eyes, or skin to serious respiratory infections. Serious infection in the indoor environment has been demonstrated during the COVID-19 pandemic. Residents living in the same house as a patient have a high risk of being infected by the virus which can be suspended in the air for a long period. Children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals are vulnerable to infection by indoor bioaerosols. This chapter summarizes the common sources of indoor bioaerosols in households and other environments. Common health hazards arising from bioaerosol exposure were also discussed with evidence from various scientific literature. In addition, simple household management practices and behavioral changes to minimize the risk of bioaerosols exposure are also suggested.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationHealth Effects of Indoor Air Pollution
Subtitle of host publicationVolume 2: Air Pollution, Human Health, and the Environment
PublisherElsevier
Pages79-100
Number of pages22
Volume2
ISBN (Electronic)9780443160905
ISBN (Print)9780443160912
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Jan 1 2024

Keywords

  • Bioaerosols
  • exposure
  • hazard
  • health effect
  • indoor air quality

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Medicine

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