Context
The emergence of new respiratory viruses such as the SARS-CoV-2 virus or avian influenza has highlighted the importance of understanding the transmission of airborne pathogens within healthcare settings. Identifying the key parameters of transmission is becoming a critical step to control the spread of potentially infectious bioaerosols and limit the risks to healthcare staff and patients.
Thanks to a large body of recent studies, public health guidelines have been updated to recommend the use of personal protection equipment (PPE) for all hospital staff, including workers that are not in direct contact with patients. However, due to the challenges presented by bioaerosol sampling, several outstanding questions remain on the risks of exposure to pathogens within healthcare settings. Indeed, traditional culture methods are time-consuming and unable to detect a large number of microorganisms present in the air.
Bertin Instruments has developed air samplers that can be used for the rapid detection and monitoring of airborne pathogens within healthcare facilities, the Coriolis air samplers.
In this White Paper, we present the best practices for bioaerosol monitoring in healthcare settings. We also describe how experts have used Bertin’s Coriolis air samplers to detect many types of airborne pathogens in hospitals, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses and perform viability studies.
