Surgical site infections (SSIs) are caused by bacteria that get in through incisions made during surgery. SSIs lead to more than 90,000 deaths each year, 50% of which are estimated to be preventable. One of the main sources of contamination is particles released into the air by operating room personnel. Small microorganisms and viruses “ride” on these particles and enter through open wounds or inhalation leading to disease and infection.

ICU and oncology patients are at heightened risk for healthcare-acquired infections due to the severity of their illness. ICU patients typically have a compromised immune system, long length of hospital stay, several caregivers performing multiple tasks, and a high quantity of invasive devices being used. All of these factors contribute to a greater potential for contact with biological or environmental contamination.

Emergency rooms and waiting rooms are high-risk areas for infection due to the high volume of infectious and vulnerable patients who can be waiting for treatment in close proximity for several hours, often in confined and poorly ventilated spaces. Not only does this environment heighten the risk of infectious diseases being spread to healthcare personnel and other patients, but also increases the chances of acquiring new infections associated with treatment.

The risk of contamination can be several times higher in multi-bed wards compared to single-bed rooms as bacteria originating from one patient can spread to others occupying the same space via air currents. Even with rigorous hand washing between patients, bacteria can be picked up and spread between patients by healthcare workers from multiple surfaces throughout the ward.

Even when IVF labs follow strict laboratory practices, airborne pathogens can negatively affect embryonic development. Indoor contaminants such as VOCs and microbes, and outside air pollution from road work, traffic, construction and insecticides can all lead to fluctuations in IVF success. Pollutants can settle on surfaces and dissolve into the aqueous solutions and oil overlays where fragile embryos are cultured.

The elderly are a vulnerable population and more susceptible to illness than younger adults. Pneumonia and lower respiratory tract infections remain the leading cause of mortality in nursing homes and airborne transmission is responsible for 20% of infections. Outbreaks in senior living facilities can not only be dangerous but also costly in staff absenteeism, overtime and closures.

Protect donors and staff from airborne transmission of viruses, bacteria and help keep the blood-bank environment clean and safe.