Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 26, 2026

Quantification and Whole Genome Characterization of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in Wastewater and Air Samples
Published on: June 30, 2023
Air conditioning, ventilation, and respiratory virus transmission potential in South India
Palak Shah1, Lauren Pischel2, Brady Sack3
1Section of Infectious Diseases, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA.
Objectives:
Rising global temperatures are expected to increase time individuals spend in under-ventilated spaces and to increase transmission of respiratory pathogens. We studied the impact of ventilation on transmission potential and basic reproductive number (R0) of respiratory viruses in Puducherry, India.
Methods:
We measured ventilation in thirteen homes and seven healthcare offices. We applied the Wells-Riley equation to estimate the transmission potential and R0 of SARS-CoV-2 and influenza under different ventilation conditions and viral shedding levels.
Results:
Viral transmission potential was high when doors and windows were closed and highest in the air conditioned (AC) condition. Transmission potential decreased significantly with natural ventilation. R₀ equaled or exceeded 2 in the closed and AC conditions for medium and high virus shedders.
Conclusion:
The transmission potential of respiratory viruses in underventilated homes and healthcare spaces is high, particularly with AC use. Natural ventilation does not reduce R0 below 1 for super shedders.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Transmission-based Precautions II: Airborne and Protective Environment
Airborne precautions:
Use airborne precautions when treating patients known or suspected to have diseases that spread through the air—for example, tuberculosis or measles. These organisms are present in smaller droplets expelled by an infected person and...
Influenza
Common Respiratory Disorders
Upper respiratory disorders impact the airways above the vocal cords, encompassing areas like the nose, sinuses, and throat. Various conditions fall under this category, including the common cold and allergic rhinitis. These disorders can stem from several causes,...
Assessment of Ventilation I: Respiratory Rate
A Ventilation assessment is critical for monitoring a patient's health status. Respiration, one of the most accessible vital signs, provides insights into the function of numerous body systems and can indicate serious health issues, such as brainstem injuries from head trauma.
Critical Guidelines for Assessing Ventilation:
Respiratory Capacities
One key metric is the Inspiratory Capacity (IC), which represents the maximum amount of air that can be inhaled with full effort. IC is calculated by summing the tidal volume and inspiratory reserve volume, typically ranging from 2.4 to 3.6 liters.
The Functional Residual Capacity (FRC) represents the air in the...
Factors Affecting Pulmonary Ventilation
Alveolar Surface Tension
The alveolar fluid lines the luminal surface of the alveoli and exerts a force called surface tension. This force is caused by the polar water molecules in the liquid being more strongly attracted to each...

