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Shi DS, Rinsky JL, McDonald E, Shah MM, Groenewold MR, de Perio MA, Feldstein LR, Saydah S, Haynes JM, Spencer BR, Stramer SL, McCullough M, Jones JM, Chiu SK. Distribution of COVID-19 mitigation measures by industry and work arrangement-US blood donors, May 2021-December 2021. Am J Ind Med 2024. [PMID: 38856006 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.23626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2024] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) mitigation measures in workplaces of employed US blood donors by industry and work arrangement. METHODS During May-December 2021, blood donors responded to a survey; we describe the distribution of reported workplace mitigation measures by industry and work arrangement, organized using the hierarchy of controls. RESULTS Of 53,433 respondents representing 21 industries, ventilation upgrades were reported by 4%-38% of respondents (overall: 20%); telework access ranged from 14%-80% (53% overall). Requiring masks (overall: 84%; range: 40%-94%), physical distancing (77%; 51%-86%), paid leave for illness (70%; 38%-87%), and encouraging vaccination (61%; 33%-80%) were common. Independent workers reported fewer mitigation measures than those in traditional employment settings. CONCLUSIONS Mitigation measures varied by industry and work arrangement. Some mitigation measures may be challenging to implement or irrelevant in certain industries, supporting the idea that mitigation is not a one-size-fits-all strategy. POLICY IMPLICATIONS Tailored strategies to mitigate workplace risks of disease transmission are vital. Strategies should rely on effective methods for identifying workplace controls (e.g., through the hierarchy of controls) and account for industry-specific characteristics and workplace environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dallas S Shi
- Division of Field Studies and Engineering, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Jessica L Rinsky
- Division of Field Studies and Engineering, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Emily McDonald
- Division of Field Studies and Engineering, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Melisa M Shah
- Division of Coronaviruses and Other Respiratory Viruses, National Center for Immunizations and Respiratory Disease, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Matthew R Groenewold
- Division of Field Studies and Engineering, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Marie A de Perio
- Office of the Director, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Leora R Feldstein
- Division of Coronaviruses and Other Respiratory Viruses, National Center for Immunizations and Respiratory Disease, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Sharon Saydah
- Division of Coronaviruses and Other Respiratory Viruses, National Center for Immunizations and Respiratory Disease, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - James M Haynes
- American Red Cross, Scientific Affairs, Dedham, MA, Rockville, Maryland, USA
| | - Bryan R Spencer
- American Red Cross, Scientific Affairs, Dedham, MA, Rockville, Maryland, USA
| | - Susan L Stramer
- American Red Cross, Scientific Affairs, Dedham, MA, Rockville, Maryland, USA
| | - Matthew McCullough
- Division of Coronaviruses and Other Respiratory Viruses, National Center for Immunizations and Respiratory Disease, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Jefferson M Jones
- Division of Coronaviruses and Other Respiratory Viruses, National Center for Immunizations and Respiratory Disease, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Sophia K Chiu
- Division of Field Studies and Engineering, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
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Alqarni Z, Rezgui Y, Petri I, Ghoroghi A. Viral infection transmission and indoor air quality: A systematic review. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 923:171308. [PMID: 38432379 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.171308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Revised: 02/03/2024] [Accepted: 02/25/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
Respiratory disease transmission in indoor environments presents persistent challenges for health authorities, as exemplified by the recent COVID-19 pandemic. This underscores the urgent necessity to investigate the dynamics of viral infection transmission within indoor environments. This systematic review delves into the methodologies of respiratory infection transmission in indoor settings and explores how the quality of indoor air (IAQ) can be controlled to alleviate this risk while considering the imperative of sustainability. Among the 2722 articles reviewed, 178 were retained based on their focus on respiratory viral infection transmission and IAQ. Fifty eight articles delved into SARS-CoV-2 transmission, 21 papers evaluated IAQ in contexts of other pandemics, 53 papers assessed IAQ during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, and 46 papers examined control strategies to mitigate infectious transmission. Furthermore, of the 46 papers investigating control strategies, only nine considered energy consumption. These findings highlight clear gaps in current research, such as analyzing indoor air and surface samples for specific indoor environments, oversight of indoor and outdoor parameters (e.g., temperature, relative humidity (RH), and building orientation), neglect of occupancy schedules, and the absence of considerations for energy consumption while enhancing IAQ. This study distinctly identifies the indoor environmental conditions conducive to the thriving of each respiratory virus, offering IAQ trade-offs to mitigate the risk of dominant viruses at any given time. This study argues that future research should involve digital twins in conjunction with machine learning (ML) techniques. This approach aims to enhance IAQ by analyzing the transmission patterns of various respiratory viruses while considering energy consumption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahi Alqarni
- School of Engineering, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF24 3AA, UK; School of Computer Science, King Khalid University, Abha 62529, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Yacine Rezgui
- School of Engineering, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF24 3AA, UK
| | - Ioan Petri
- School of Engineering, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF24 3AA, UK
| | - Ali Ghoroghi
- School of Engineering, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF24 3AA, UK
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3
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Srikrishna D. Pentagon Found Daily, Metagenomic Detection of Novel Bioaerosol Threats to Be Cost-Prohibitive: Can Virtualization and AI Make It Cost-Effective? Health Secur 2024; 22:108-129. [PMID: 38625036 DOI: 10.1089/hs.2023.0048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/17/2024] Open
Abstract
In 2022, the Pentagon Force Protection Agency found threat agnostic detection of novel bioaerosol threats to be "not feasible for daily operations" due to the cost of reagents used for metagenomics, cost of sequencing instruments, and cost of labor for subject matter experts to analyze bioinformatics. Similar operational difficulties might extend to many of the 280,000 buildings (totaling 2.3 billion square feet) at 5,000 secure US Department of Defense military sites, 250 Navy ships, as well as many civilian buildings. These economic barriers can still be addressed in a threat agnostic manner by dynamically pooling samples from dry filter units, called spike-triggered virtualization, whereby pooling and sequencing depth are automatically modulated based on novel biothreats in the sequencing output. By running at a high average pooling factor, the daily and annual cost per dry filter unit can be reduced by 10 to 100 times depending on the chosen trigger thresholds. Artificial intelligence can further enhance the sensitivity of spike-triggered virtualization. The risk of infection during the 12- to 24-hour window between a bioaerosol incident and its detection remains, but in some cases it can be reduced by 80% or more with high-speed indoor air cleaning exceeding 12 air changes per hour, which is similar to the rate of air cleaning in passenger airplanes in flight. That level of air changes per hour or higher is likely to be cost-prohibitive using central heating ventilation and air conditioning systems, but it can be achieved economically by using portable air filtration in rooms with typical ceiling heights (less than 10 feet) for a cost of approximately $0.50 to $1 per square foot for do-it-yourself units and $2 to $5 per square foot for high-efficiency particulate air filters.
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4
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Andrup L, Krogfelt KA, Stephansen L, Hansen KS, Graversen BK, Wolkoff P, Madsen AM. Reduction of acute respiratory infections in day-care by non-pharmaceutical interventions: a narrative review. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1332078. [PMID: 38420031 PMCID: PMC10899481 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1332078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective Children who start in day-care have 2-4 times as many respiratory infections compared to children who are cared for at home, and day-care staff are among the employees with the highest absenteeism. The extensive new knowledge that has been generated in the COVID-19 era should be used in the prevention measures we prioritize. The purpose of this narrative review is to answer the questions: Which respiratory viruses are the most significant in day-care centers and similar indoor environments? What do we know about the transmission route of these viruses? What evidence is there for the effectiveness of different non-pharmaceutical prevention measures? Design Literature searches with different terms related to respiratory infections in humans, mitigation strategies, viral transmission mechanisms, and with special focus on day-care, kindergarten or child nurseries, were conducted in PubMed database and Web of Science. Searches with each of the main viruses in combination with transmission, infectivity, and infectious spread were conducted separately supplemented through the references of articles that were retrieved. Results Five viruses were found to be responsible for ≈95% of respiratory infections: rhinovirus, (RV), influenza virus (IV), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), coronavirus (CoV), and adenovirus (AdV). Novel research, emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic, suggests that most respiratory viruses are primarily transmitted in an airborne manner carried by aerosols (microdroplets). Conclusion Since airborne transmission is dominant for the most common respiratory viruses, the most important preventive measures consist of better indoor air quality that reduces viral concentrations and viability by appropriate ventilation strategies. Furthermore, control of the relative humidity and temperature, which ensures optimal respiratory functionality and, together with low resident density (or mask use) and increased time outdoors, can reduce the occurrence of respiratory infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lars Andrup
- The National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Karen A Krogfelt
- Department of Science and Environment, Molecular and Medical Biology, PandemiX Center, Roskilde University, Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Lene Stephansen
- Gladsaxe Municipality, Social and Health Department, Gladsaxe, Denmark
| | | | | | - Peder Wolkoff
- The National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anne Mette Madsen
- The National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark
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5
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Lu FT, Laumbach RJ, Legard A, Myers NT, Black KG, Ohman-Strickland P, Alimokhtari S, de Resende A, Calderón L, Mainelis G, Kipen HM. Real-World Effectiveness of Portable Air Cleaners in Reducing Home Particulate Matter Concentrations. AEROSOL AND AIR QUALITY RESEARCH 2024; 24:230202. [PMID: 38618024 PMCID: PMC11014421 DOI: 10.4209/aaqr.230202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
Portable air cleaners (PACs) equipped with HEPA filters are gaining attention as cost-effective means of decreasing indoor particulate matter (PM) air pollutants and airborne viruses. However, the performance of PACs in naturalistic settings and spaces beyond the room containing the PAC is not well characterized. We conducted a single-blinded randomized cross-over interventional study between November 2020 and May 2021 in the homes of adults who tested positive for COVID-19. The intervention was air filtration with PAC operated with the HEPA filter set installed ("filter" condition) versus removed ("sham" condition, i.e., control). Sampling was performed in 29 homes for two consecutive 24-hour periods in the primary room (containing the PAC) and a secondary room. PAC effectiveness, calculated as reductions in overall mean PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations during the filter condition, were for the primary rooms 78.8% and 63.9% (n = 23), respectively, and for the secondary rooms 57.9% and 60.4% (n = 22), respectively. When a central air handler (CAH) was reported to be in use, filter-associated reductions of PM were statistically significant during the day (06:00-22:00) and night (22:01-05:59) in the primary rooms but only during the day in the secondary rooms. Our study adds to the literature evaluating the real-world effects of PACs on a secondary room and considering the impact of central air systems on PAC performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frederic T. Lu
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Robert J. Laumbach
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health and Justice, School of Public Health, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Alicia Legard
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Nirmala T. Myers
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA
- Department of Environmental Sciences, School of Environmental and Biological Sciences, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Kathleen G. Black
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Pamela Ohman-Strickland
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Shahnaz Alimokhtari
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Adriana de Resende
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Leonardo Calderón
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA
- Department of Environmental Sciences, School of Environmental and Biological Sciences, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Gediminas Mainelis
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA
- Department of Environmental Sciences, School of Environmental and Biological Sciences, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Howard M. Kipen
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health and Justice, School of Public Health, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA
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6
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Horne J, Dunne N, Singh N, Safiuddin M, Esmaeili N, Erenler M, Ho I, Luk E. Building parameters linked with indoor transmission of SARS-CoV-2. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 238:117156. [PMID: 37717799 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.117156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2023] [Revised: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023]
Abstract
The rapid spread of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has emphasized the importance of understanding and adapting to the indoor remediation of transmissible diseases to decrease the risk for future pandemic threats. While there were many precautions in place to hinder the spread of COVID-19, there has also been a substantial increase of new research on SARS-CoV-2 that can be utilized to further mitigate the transmission risk of this novel virus. This review paper aims to identify the building parameters of indoor spaces that could have considerable influence on the transmission of SARS-CoV-2. The following building parameters have been identified and analyzed, emphasizing their link with the indoor transmission of SARS-CoV-2: temperature and relative humidity, temperature differences between rooms, ventilation rate and access to natural ventilation, occupant density, surface type and finish, airflow direction and speed, air stability, indoor air pollution, central air conditioning systems, capacity of air handling system and HVAC filter efficiency, edge sealing of air filters, room layout and interior design, and compartmentalization of interior space. This paper also explains the interactions of SARS-CoV-2 with indoor environments and its persistence. Furthermore, the modifications of the key building parameters have been discussed for controlling the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 in indoor spaces. Understanding the information provided in this paper is crucial to develop effective health and safety measures that will aid in infection prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline Horne
- Centre for Construction and Engineering Technologies, George Brown College, Casa Loma Campus, 160 Kendal Avenue, Toronto, ON M5R 1M3, Canada
| | - Nicholas Dunne
- Centre for Construction and Engineering Technologies, George Brown College, Casa Loma Campus, 160 Kendal Avenue, Toronto, ON M5R 1M3, Canada
| | - Nirmala Singh
- Centre for Construction and Engineering Technologies, George Brown College, Casa Loma Campus, 160 Kendal Avenue, Toronto, ON M5R 1M3, Canada
| | - Md Safiuddin
- Centre for Construction and Engineering Technologies, George Brown College, Casa Loma Campus, 160 Kendal Avenue, Toronto, ON M5R 1M3, Canada.
| | - Navid Esmaeili
- Centre for Construction and Engineering Technologies, George Brown College, Casa Loma Campus, 160 Kendal Avenue, Toronto, ON M5R 1M3, Canada
| | - Merve Erenler
- Centre for Construction and Engineering Technologies, George Brown College, Casa Loma Campus, 160 Kendal Avenue, Toronto, ON M5R 1M3, Canada
| | - Ian Ho
- Sysconverge Inc., 7030 Woodbine Avenue, Suite 500, Markham, ON L3R 6G2, Canada
| | - Edwin Luk
- Sysconverge Inc., 7030 Woodbine Avenue, Suite 500, Markham, ON L3R 6G2, Canada
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7
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Donskey CJ. High technology and low technology measures to reduce risk of SARS-CoV-2 transmission. Am J Infect Control 2023; 51:A126-A133. [PMID: 37890942 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajic.2023.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, a variety of low technology and high technology measures have been proposed to reduce the risk for transmission. Identifying those measures likely to be useful in reducing viral transmission without undue expense or potential for adverse effects has been a challenge for infection control programs. The challenge has been compounded by the lack of tools that can be used to assess the risk for viral transmission in different settings. This review discusses practical tools that can be used to assess ventilation and airflow and evaluates some of the low technology and high technology measures that have been proposed as control measures for COVID-19. Some typical questions posed to infection control programs during the pandemic are presented to illustrate real-world application of the concepts being discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Curtis J Donskey
- Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center, Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center, Cleveland, OH; Department of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH.
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8
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Beale S, Yavlinsky A, Hoskins S, Nguyen V, Byrne T, Fong WLE, Kovar J, Van Tongeren M, Aldridge RW, Hayward A. Between-occupation differences in work-related COVID-19 mitigation strategies over time: Analysis of the Virus Watch Cohort in England and Wales. Scand J Work Environ Health 2023; 49:350-362. [PMID: 37066842 PMCID: PMC10713985 DOI: 10.5271/sjweh.4092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 04/18/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES COVID-19 mitigations have had a profound impact on workplaces, however, multisectoral comparisons of how work-related mitigations were applied are limited. This study aimed to investigate (i) occupational differences in the usage of key work-related mitigations over time and (ii) workers' perceptions of these mitigations. METHODS Employed/self-employed Virus Watch study participants (N=6279) responded to a mitigation-related online survey covering the periods of December 2020-February 2022. Logistic regression was used to investigate occupation- and time-related differences in the usage of work-related mitigation methods. Participants' perceptions of mitigation methods were investigated descriptively using proportions. RESULTS Usage of work-related mitigation methods differed between occupations and over time, likely reflecting variation in job roles, workplace environments, legislation and guidance. Healthcare workers had the highest predicted probabilities for several mitigations, including reporting frequent hand hygiene [predicted probability across all survey periods 0.61 (95% CI 0.56-0.66)] and always wearing face coverings [predicted probability range 0.71 (95% CI 0.66-0.75) - 0.80 (95% CI 0.76-0.84) across survey periods]. There were significant cross-occupational trends towards reduced mitigations during periods of less stringent national restrictions. The majority of participants across occupations (55-88%) agreed that most mitigations were reasonable and worthwhile even after the relaxation of national restrictions; agreement was lower for physical distancing (39-44%). CONCLUSIONS While usage of work-related mitigations appeared to vary alongside stringency of national restrictions, agreement that most mitigations were reasonable and worthwhile remained substantial. Further investigation into the factors underlying between-occupational differences could assist pandemic planning and prevention of workplace COVID-19 transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Beale
- Institute of Epidemiology and Health Care, University College London, London, UK, WC1E 7HB.
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9
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Glenn K, He J, Rochlin R, Teng S, Hecker JG, Novosselov I. Assessment of aerosol persistence in ICUs via low-cost sensor network and zonal models. Sci Rep 2023; 13:3992. [PMID: 36899063 PMCID: PMC10006437 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-30778-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic raised public awareness about airborne particulate matter (PM) due to the spread of infectious diseases via the respiratory route. The persistence of potentially infectious aerosols in public spaces and the spread of nosocomial infections in medical settings deserve careful investigation; however, a systematic approach characterizing the fate of aerosols in clinical environments has not been reported. This paper presents a methodology for mapping aerosol propagation using a low-cost PM sensor network in ICU and adjacent environments and the subsequent development of the data-driven zonal model. Mimicking aerosol generation by a patient, we generated trace NaCl aerosols and monitored their propagation in the environment. In positive (closed door) and neutral-pressure (open door) ICUs, up to 6% or 19%, respectively, of all PM escaped through the door gaps; however, the outside sensors did not register an aerosol spike in negative-pressure ICUs. The K-means clustering analysis of temporospatial aerosol concentration data suggests that ICU can be represented by three distinct zones: (1) near the aerosol source, (2) room periphery, and (3) outside the room. The data suggests two-phase plume behavior: dispersion of the original aerosol spike throughout the room, followed by an evacuation phase where "well-mixed" aerosol concentration decayed uniformly. Decay rates were calculated for positive, neutral, and negative pressure operations, with negative-pressure rooms clearing out nearly twice as fast. These decay trends closely followed the air exchange rates. This research demonstrates the methodology for aerosol monitoring in medical settings. This study is limited by a relatively small data set and is specific to single-occupancy ICU rooms. Future work needs to evaluate medical settings with high risks of infectious disease transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Glenn
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | - J He
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | - R Rochlin
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | - S Teng
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | - J G Hecker
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | - I Novosselov
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, USA.
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10
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Derk RC, Coyle JP, Lindsley WG, Blachere FM, Lemons AR, Service SK, Martin SB, Mead KR, Fotta SA, Reynolds JS, McKinney WG, Sinsel EW, Beezhold DH, Noti JD. Efficacy of Do-It-Yourself air filtration units in reducing exposure to simulated respiratory aerosols. BUILDING AND ENVIRONMENT 2023; 229:109920. [PMID: 36569517 PMCID: PMC9759459 DOI: 10.1016/j.buildenv.2022.109920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Revised: 12/03/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Many respiratory diseases, including COVID-19, can be spread by aerosols expelled by infected people when they cough, talk, sing, or exhale. Exposure to these aerosols indoors can be reduced by portable air filtration units (air cleaners). Homemade or Do-It-Yourself (DIY) air filtration units are a popular alternative to commercially produced devices, but performance data is limited. Our study used a speaker-audience model to examine the efficacy of two popular types of DIY air filtration units, the Corsi-Rosenthal cube and a modified Ford air filtration unit, in reducing exposure to simulated respiratory aerosols within a mock classroom. Experiments were conducted using four breathing simulators at different locations in the room, one acting as the respiratory aerosol source and three as recipients. Optical particle spectrometers monitored simulated respiratory aerosol particles (0.3-3 μm) as they dispersed throughout the room. Using two DIY cubes (in the front and back of the room) increased the air change rate as much as 12.4 over room ventilation, depending on filter thickness and fan airflow. Using multiple linear regression, each unit increase of air change reduced exposure by 10%. Increasing the number of filters, filter thickness, and fan airflow significantly enhanced the air change rate, which resulted in exposure reductions of up to 73%. Our results show DIY air filtration units can be an effective means of reducing aerosol exposure. However, they also show performance of DIY units can vary considerably depending upon their design, construction, and positioning, and users should be mindful of these limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raymond C Derk
- Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1000 Fredrick Lane, Morgantown, WV, 26508, USA
| | - Jayme P Coyle
- Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1000 Fredrick Lane, Morgantown, WV, 26508, USA
| | - William G Lindsley
- Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1000 Fredrick Lane, Morgantown, WV, 26508, USA
| | - Francoise M Blachere
- Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1000 Fredrick Lane, Morgantown, WV, 26508, USA
| | - Angela R Lemons
- Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1000 Fredrick Lane, Morgantown, WV, 26508, USA
| | - Samantha K Service
- Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1000 Fredrick Lane, Morgantown, WV, 26508, USA
| | - Stephen B Martin
- Respiratory Health Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1000 Fredrick Lane, Morgantown, WV, 26505, USA
| | - Kenneth R Mead
- Division of Field Studies and Engineering, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Cincinnati, OH, 45226, USA
| | - Steven A Fotta
- Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1000 Fredrick Lane, Morgantown, WV, 26508, USA
| | - Jeffrey S Reynolds
- Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1000 Fredrick Lane, Morgantown, WV, 26508, USA
| | - Walter G McKinney
- Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1000 Fredrick Lane, Morgantown, WV, 26508, USA
| | - Erik W Sinsel
- Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1000 Fredrick Lane, Morgantown, WV, 26508, USA
| | - Donald H Beezhold
- Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1000 Fredrick Lane, Morgantown, WV, 26508, USA
| | - John D Noti
- Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1000 Fredrick Lane, Morgantown, WV, 26508, USA
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11
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If you can’t measure it, you can’t improve it: Practical tools to assess ventilation and airflow patterns to reduce the risk for transmission of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 and other airborne pathogens. Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol 2022; 43:915-917. [PMID: 35379373 PMCID: PMC9021581 DOI: 10.1017/ice.2022.103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
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Free H, Luckhaupt SE, Billock RM, Groenewold MR, Burrer S, Sweeney MH, Wong J, Gibb K, Rodriguez A, Vergara X, Cummings K, Lavender A, Argueta G, Crawford HL, Erukunuapor K, Karlsson ND, Armenti K, Thomas H, Gaetz K, Dang G, Harduar-Morano L, Modji K. Reported Exposures Among In-Person Workers With Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) Infection in 6 States, September 2020-June 2021. Clin Infect Dis 2022; 75:S216-S224. [PMID: 35717638 PMCID: PMC9214180 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciac486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2022] [Revised: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Surveillance systems lack detailed occupational exposure information from workers with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health partnered with 6 states to collect information from adults diagnosed with SARS-CoV-2 infection who worked in person (outside the home) in non-healthcare settings during the 2 weeks prior to illness onset. METHODS The survey captured demographic, medical, and occupational characteristics and work- and non-work-related risk factors for SARS-CoV-2 infection. Reported close contact with a person known or suspected to have SARS-CoV-2 infection was categorized by setting as exposure at work, exposure outside of work only, or no known exposure/did not know. Frequencies and percentages of exposure types are compared by respondent characteristics and risk factors. RESULTS Of 1111 respondents, 19.4% reported exposure at work, 23.4% reported exposure outside of work only, and 57.2% reported no known exposure/did not know. Workers in protective service occupations (48.8%) and public administration industries (35.6%) reported exposure at work most often. More than one third (33.7%) of respondents who experienced close contact with ≥10 coworkers per day and 28.8% of respondents who experienced close contact with ≥10 customers/clients per day reported exposures at work. CONCLUSIONS Exposure to occupational SARS-CoV-2 was common among respondents. Examining differences in exposures among different worker groups can help identify populations with the greatest need for prevention interventions. The benefits of recording employment characteristics as standard demographic information will remain relevant as new and reemerging public health issues occur.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sara E Luckhaupt
- Division of Field Studies and Engineering, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
| | - Rachael M Billock
- Division of Field Studies and Engineering, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
| | - Matthew R Groenewold
- Division of Field Studies and Engineering, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
| | - Sherry Burrer
- Emergency Preparedness and Response Office, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
| | - Marie Haring Sweeney
- Division of Field Studies and Engineering, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Hannah Thomas
- New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services
| | - Kim Gaetz
- North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services
| | - Gialana Dang
- North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services,Western States Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
| | - Laurel Harduar-Morano
- Pennsylvania Department of Health,Division of State and Local Readiness, Center for Preparedness and Response, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
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DuBois CK, Murphy MJ, Kramer AJ, Quam JD, Fox AR, Oberlin TJ, Logan PW. Use of portable air purifiers as local exhaust ventilation during COVID-19. JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL HYGIENE 2022; 19:310-317. [PMID: 35290164 DOI: 10.1080/15459624.2022.2053141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to determine if strategic placement of portable air purifiers would improve effectiveness of aerosol reduction in a space as compared to use as a general room air purifier. Two sizes of portable air purifiers were placed in two different positions intended to function similar to either a local exhaust ventilation hood or an air curtain to determine if strategic placement would lead to a reduction of particles in a worker's position at a desk in an office environment. Particle generators were used to introduce particulate into the air and personal aerosol monitors measured particles during each test condition. Results showed that when the medium room portable air purifiers used in this study were set to high, corresponding to 98 CFM, and placed near the breathing zone of each office worker with the unit's filter cover removed, the particle concentration was reduced 35% beyond the reduction that would be expected if the same units were placed on the floor behind the occupant's workstation. Results also indicated that the larger portable air purifier tested, positioned as close as reasonable to each occupant's breathing zone with the largest capture area possible (i.e., removing the unit's filter cover), delivers the best aerosol reduction performance. The authors concluded that as a layer of protection against transmission of airborne infectious organisms for office occupants, installing a portable air purifier, sized and operated similar to the units tested in this study on the desk 12 inches from the breathing zone of the worker, has the potential to reduce airborne particulate to a greater degree than if the same units were placed outside of the breathing zone, in the general cubicle area.
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Cadnum JL, Jencson AL, Alhmidi H, Zabarsky TF, Donskey CJ. Airflow Patterns in Double-Occupancy Patient Rooms May Contribute to Roommate-to-Roommate Transmission of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2. Clin Infect Dis 2022; 75:2128-2134. [PMID: 35476020 PMCID: PMC9129113 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciac334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Revised: 04/15/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hospitalized patients are at risk to acquire severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) from roommates with unrecognized coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). We hypothesized that airflow patterns might contribute to SARS-CoV-2 transmission in double-occupancy patient rooms. METHODS A device emitting condensed moisture was used to identify airflow patterns in double-occupancy patient rooms. Simulations were conducted to assess transfer of fluorescent microspheres, 5% sodium chloride aerosol, and aerosolized bacteriophage MS2 between patient beds 3 meters apart and to assess the effectiveness of privacy curtains and portable air cleaners in reducing transfer. RESULTS Air flowed from inlet vents in the center of the room to an outlet vent near the door, resulting in air currents flowing toward the bed adjacent to the outlet vent. Fluorescent microspheres (212-250-µm diameter), 5% sodium chloride aerosol, and aerosolized bacteriophage MS2 released from the inner bed were carried on air currents toward the bed adjacent to the outlet vent. Closing curtains between the patient beds reduced transfer of each of the particles. Operation of a portable air cleaner reduced aerosol transfer to the bed adjacent to the outlet vent but did not offer a benefit over closing the curtains alone, and in some situations, resulted in an increase in aerosol exposure. CONCLUSIONS Airflow patterns in double-occupancy patient rooms may contribute to risk for transmission of SARS-CoV-2 between roommates. Keeping curtains closed between beds may be beneficial in reducing risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer L. Cadnum
- Research Service, Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Annette L. Jencson
- Research Service, Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Heba Alhmidi
- Research Service, Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Trina F. Zabarsky
- Infection Control Department, Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Curtis J. Donskey
- Geriatric Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio, USA,Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio, USA,Corresponding author: Curtis J. Donskey, Infectious Diseases Section 1110W, Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center, 10701 East Boulevard, Cleveland, Ohio 44106, USA;
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Peimbert M, Alcaraz LD. Where environmental microbiome meets its host: subway and passenger microbiome relationships. Mol Ecol 2022; 32:2602-2618. [PMID: 35318755 DOI: 10.1111/mec.16440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Revised: 03/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Subways are urban transport systems with high capacity. Every day around the world, there are more than 150 million subway passengers. Since 2013, thousands of microbiome samples from various subways worldwide have been sequenced. Skin bacteria and environmental organisms dominate the subway microbiomes. The literature has revealed common bacterial groups in subway systems; even so, it is possible to identify cities by their microbiome. Low-frequency bacteria are responsible for specific bacterial fingerprints of each subway system. Furthermore, daily subway commuters leave their microbial clouds and interact with other passengers. Microbial exchange is quite fast; the hand microbiome changes within minutes, and after cleaning the handrails, the bacteria are re-established within minutes. To investigate new taxa and metabolic pathways of subway microbial communities, several high-quality metagenomic-assembled genomes (MAG) have been described. Subways are harsh environments unfavorable for microorganism growth. However, recent studies have observed a wide diversity of viable and metabolically active bacteria. Understanding which bacteria are living, dormant, or dead allows us to propose realistic ecological interactions. Questions regarding the relationship between humans and the subway microbiome, particularly the microbiome effects on personal and public health, remain unanswered. This review summarizes our knowledge of subway microbiomes and their relationship with passenger microbiomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Peimbert
- Departamento de Ciencias Naturales, Unidad Cuajimalpa, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana. Ciudad de México, México
| | - Luis D Alcaraz
- Departamento de Biología Celular, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, México
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