Authors : Jeryl Joselin P. Morales; John Lester Resuello; Melmar Camacho; Gecelene Estorico

Volume/Issue : Volume 9 - 2024, Issue 11 - November

Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/zm22bezw

Scribd : https://tinyurl.com/5n7batvb

DOI : https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.14500080

Abstract : Indoor air quality (IAQ) plays a critical role in public health, especially as people spend approximately 90% of their time indoors. Airborne pathogens, including viruses, bacteria, and fungi, are significant contributors to poor IAQ and are linked to a range of health outcomes such as respiratory illnesses, systemic infections, and allergic reactions. This systematic review synthesizes evidence on the prevalence of airborne pathogens in indoor environments, their impacts on human health, and the effectiveness of various detection methods. The review identified common pathogens such as SARS-CoV-2, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Legionella pneumophila, Aspergillus spp., and Penicillium spp. across diverse indoor settings, including hospitals, schools, homes, and offices. Viral pathogens, particularly SARS-CoV-2 and Influenza A, dominated in high-occupancy environments, while bacterial pathogens such as Mycobacterium tuberculosis and Legionella pneumophila posed significant risks in healthcare and educational settings. Fungal pathogens were more prevalent in damp, poorly ventilated environments, contributing to asthma exacerbation and allergic reactions. Vulnerable populations, including children, the elderly, and hospitalized patients, were disproportionately affected. Advanced pathogen identification methods, including air sampling, PCR analysis, and culture techniques, were pivotal in detecting and characterizing airborne pathogens. However, barriers such as cost and accessibility limit their widespread use. This review highlights the importance of improving IAQ through enhanced ventilation, regular environmental monitoring, and scalable detection technologies. The findings underscore the urgent need for targeted interventions tailored to high-risk environments and specific pathogen types. Furthermore, the study identifies critical research gaps, particularly regarding long-term health impacts of airborne pathogen exposure and the efficacy of IAQ mitigation strategies. This systematic review provides a comprehensive foundation for future research and public health policies aimed at mitigating the risks associated with airborne pathogens in indoor environments.

Keywords : Viral Pathogens, Health Outcomes, Respiratory Illness, Environmental Settings, Detection Technologies.

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