Factors affecting the microbiological air quality in a school corridor - a case study.

Area of Science:

• Environmental microbiology
• Public health
• Indoor air quality

Background:

• School corridors are under-researched spaces regarding indoor bioaerosol concentration (IBC).
• IBC can pose potential health risks to students and staff.
• Factors like occupancy, temperature, and relative humidity may influence IBC.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate indoor bioaerosol concentration (IBC) in school corridors.
• To assess the dependence of IBC on the number of people, temperature, and relative humidity.
• To evaluate potential health risks associated with IBC in these environments.

Main Methods:

• AirIdeal 3P impactor for measuring IBC, including various bacteria and fungi.
• Genetic identification of Staphylococcus aureus and hemolytic bacteria using MecA gene analysis and 16S rRNA sequencing.
• Pearson's and Spearman's correlation analyses to assess relationships between occupancy, microclimate, and IBC.

Main Results:

• Highest concentrations of mannitol(+)Staphylococci, Staphylococcus aureus, and mesophiles correlated positively with increased student numbers.
• Bacterial groups showed an indoor/outdoor ratio > 1, while fungi showed < 1.
• Genetic analyses confirmed the presence of Staphylococcus aureus; phylogenetic analysis identified dominant genera like Staphylococcus, Bacillus, and Corynebacterium.

Conclusions:

• The presence of airborne pathogens in school corridors highlights the need for air quality monitoring.
• Student occupancy is a significant factor influencing indoor bioaerosol concentrations.
• Further research into controlling bioaerosols in school environments is warranted.