Distribution characteristics and potential health risks of airborne microorganisms

Abstract:

Airborne microorganisms (AMs), including bacteria, fungi, and viruses, are ubiquitous. They are indispensable components of the atmospheric ecosystem, play an essential role in maintaining the stability and functions of the atmospheric ecosystem. AMs include not only beneficial microorganisms but also pathogenic microorganisms, which pose a threat to human health. Therefore, comprehensively revealing the distribution characteristics and succession patterns of AMs is of great significance for improving air quality, safeguarding human health, and ensuring national biosafety. This review systematically elucidates the sources, distribution characteristics, influencing factors, and categories of pathogenic microorganisms as well as the health risks associated with AMs. It contributes to the in-depth understanding of AMs pollution and its health risks, providing a scientific basis for preventing and controlling the pollution and protecting human health and eco-environment.