Biological Composition of Respirable Particulate Matter in an Industrial Vicinity in South Africa

There is a growing concern that exposure to particulate matter of aerodynamic diameter of less than 2.5 µm (PM_2.5) with biological composition (bioaerosols) may play a key role in the prevalence of adverse health outcomes in humans. This study determined the bacterial and fungal concentrations in PM_2.5 and their inhalation health risks in an industrial vicinity in South Africa. Samples of PM_2.5 collected on a 47-mm glass fiber filter during winter and summer months were analysed for bacterial and fungal content using standard methods. The health risks from inhalation of bioaerosols were done by estimating the age-specific dose rate. The concentration of bacteria (168⁻378 CFU/m³) was higher than fungi (58⁻155 CFU/m³). Bacterial and fungal concentrations in PM_2.5 were lower in winter than in the summer season. Bacteria identified in summer were similar to those identified in winter: Staphylococcus sp., Bacillus sp., Micrococcus sp., Flavobacterium sp., Klebsiella sp. and Pseudomonas sp. Moreover, the fungal floras identified include Cladosporium spp., Aspergillus spp., Penicillium spp., Fusarium spp. and Alternaria spp. Children inhaled a higher dose of bacterial and fungal aerosols than adults. Bacteria and fungi are part of the bioaerosol components of PM_2.5. Bioaerosol exposure may present additional health risks for children.