Investigation of relationship between fungal bioaerosols and particulate matter in two educational hospitals in Qazvin city

Background and Hospital-acquired infections, are the most important consequence in exposure to bioaerosols in which affect health of staffs and clients. The present study aimed to investigate the relationship between fungal bioaerosols and particulate matter in two educational hospitals in Qazvin city in 2017. This descriptive-analytical study, was performed in 12 of two hospitals indoor wards and outdoor air, during six months. Bioaerosols sampling was done by Quick Take-30 at an airflow rate of 28.3 L/min, for 5-10 min. determination of PM10 and PM2.5 concentrations conducted by a Micro-Dust Pro at flowrate of 3.8 L/min as µg/m3. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 20, non-parametric tests and Spearman's correlation. Results indicated that the highest and lowest of total of microbial density was for EMS1 and operating rooms. Peak of fungal bioaerosols was observed in women’s surgery1 (92.7 CFU/m3). Species of Aspergillus niger was the most frequency fungi. Significant correlation was observed between fungal concentration and PM10, temperature and humidity ratio (p<0.05). In this study the main sources of pollution were related to hospital wards. Thus suggests controlling of microorganisms of air by improving of ventilation system, observance of sanitary and cleanliness regulations and continual assessment of indoor air quality. Because of association between PM2.5 and PM10 and bioaerosols density, measurement of the particulate matter concentration can be used as an easy and quick tool for predicting of the air microbial contamination in healthcare centers.