The air in airplanes and hospitals is primarily composed of harmless microbes commonly found on human skin, says a groundbreaking study by Northwestern University.
Germophobes can take comfort knowing that potentially harmful pathogens are extremely rare in these environments.
Innovative Sampling Using Face Masks and Aircraft Filters
Scientists used worn face masks from passengers and healthcare workers, plus aircraft HEPA filters, to sample airborne microbes. Over 400 microbial species were detected, predominantly benign skin-associated bacteria and environmental microbes. The study demonstrated that face masks can double as an inexpensive, non-invasive air sampling tool.
Similar Microbial Communities in Hospitals and Airplanes
Both airplanes and hospitals showed highly similar microbial communities, indicating humans themselves are the primary source of airborne microbes rather than the environment. The microbes floating in indoor air originated mostly from human skin rather than infectious illness.
Antibiotic Resistance Genes Detected Without Active Threat
The team also found genes linked to antibiotic resistance present in the airborne microbes. Although these do not indicate immediate danger, they highlight the ubiquity of resistance factors in shared environments.
Airborne Spread versus Surface Transmission
Despite the mostly benign airborne microbes, researchers stress infection control should remain focused on hand hygiene and surface contact prevention, as airborne transmission is just one route among many for common illnesses.