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Detection of microorganisms in hospital air before and during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic
1Yan'an Hospital of Kunming City, Kunming City, Yunnan Province, China. yhong_zhao@163.com.
Objective:
Microorganisms present a global public health problem and are the leading cause of hospital-acquired infections. Therefore, it is essential to study the prevalence of microorganisms in hospital environments. The conclusion from such a study can contribute to identify the areas most likely to be contaminated in a hospital and appropriate measures that can decrease the exposure risk.
Materials And Methods:
The prevalence of microorganisms in hospital air was examined in different departments by obtaining air samples with an impactor before and during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. A total of 2145 microorganisms were identified, and the corresponding data were jointly analyzed by area, sampling period, and concentration.
Results:
The most frequently detected microorganisms in hospital air were Staphylococcus, Micrococcus, Neisseria, and fungi, and the more polluted departments were the hemodialysis department, respiratory department, treatment room, and toilet. Significant differences were found between the concentration of bacteria and fungi before and during the pandemic, which could be related to multiple environmental conditions. Furthermore, SARS-CoV-2 was negative in all the air samples.
Conclusions:
Overall, this study confirmed the existence and dynamic characteristics of airborne microorganisms in a hospital. The results contribute to the adaptation of specific measures which can decrease the exposure risk of patients, visitors, and staff.
Insights
Hospital air contains various microorganisms, with higher concentrations found in specific departments before and during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. This study highlights the need for targeted measures to reduce infection risks for patients and staff.
Area of Science:
- Environmental microbiology
- Hospital infection control
- Public health
Background:
- Microorganisms in hospital environments pose a significant public health risk, contributing to hospital-acquired infections.
- Understanding microbial prevalence is crucial for identifying contamination hotspots and implementing effective risk reduction strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence and characteristics of airborne microorganisms in hospital settings.
- To compare microbial loads before and during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic.
- To identify high-risk departments for microbial contamination.
Main Methods:
- Air sampling using an impactor in various hospital departments.
- Identification and quantification of airborne microorganisms.
- Comparative analysis of microbial data based on area, sampling period, and concentration.
Main Results:
- Staphylococcus, Micrococcus, Neisseria, and fungi were the most common airborne microorganisms.
- Hemodialysis, respiratory, treatment rooms, and toilets showed higher microbial pollution.
- Significant differences in bacteria and fungi concentrations were observed between pre-pandemic and pandemic periods.
- All air samples tested negative for SARS-CoV-2.
Conclusions:
- Airborne microorganisms are consistently present and dynamic within hospital environments.
- Findings support the development of targeted interventions to minimize exposure risks for patients, visitors, and healthcare workers.
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