Shower dehumidification to reduce nontuberculous mycobacteria aerosolization

Area of Science:

• Environmental microbiology
• Public health
• Infectious disease

Background:

• Nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) are opportunistic pathogens linked to lung disease.
• Shower use has been associated with NTM infections, but aerosolization dynamics are not fully understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate humidity's role in NTM aerosolization from showerheads.
• To assess if dehumidifier use reduces NTM exposure in homes.

Main Methods:

• Sampled NTM biofilms and airborne NTM from five showers across two events.
• Collected samples pre-shower, post-shower, and post-dehumidification.
• Utilized dehumidifiers and ventilation in bathrooms.

Main Results:

• Respiratory-relevant NTM species were found in shower biofilms and airborne particles post-showering.
• NTM aerosolization was not detected after dehumidifier use and ventilation.
• Small sample size suggests potential efficacy of interventions.

Conclusions:

• Showering may be a source of NTM aerosolization.
• Dehumidifiers and ventilation may be effective, low-cost methods to reduce NTM exposure.