Viruses, Vol. 13, Pages 2536: Efficacy of Ventilation, HEPA Air Cleaners, Universal Masking, and Physical Distancing for Reducing Exposure to Simulated Exhaled Aerosols in a Meeting Room

Viruses, Vol. 13, Pages 2536: Efficacy of Ventilation, HEPA Air Cleaners, Universal Masking, and Physical Distancing for Reducing Exposure to Simulated Exhaled Aerosols in a Meeting Room Viruses doi: 10.3390/v13122536 Authors: Jayme P. Coyle Raymond C. Derk William G. Lindsley Francoise M. Blachere Theresa Boots Angela R. Lemons Stephen B. Martin Kenneth R. Mead Steven A. Fotta Jeffrey S. Reynolds Walter G. McKinney Erik W. Sinsel Donald H. Beezhold John D. Noti There is strong evidence associating the indoor environment with transmission of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. SARS-CoV-2 can spread by exposure to droplets and very fine aerosol particles from respiratory fluids that are released by infected persons. Layered mitigation strategies, including but not limited to maintaining physical distancing, adequate ventilation, universal masking, avoiding overcrowding, and vaccination, have shown to be effective in reducing the spread of SARS-CoV-2 within the indoor environment. Here, we examine the effect of mitigation strategies on reducing the risk of exposure to simulated respiratory aerosol particles within a classroom-style meeting room. To quantify exposure of uninfected individuals (Recipients), surrogate respiratory aerosol particles were generated by a breathing simulator with a headform (Source) that mimicked breath exhalations. Recipients, represented by three breathing simulators with manikin headforms, were placed in a m...
Source: Viruses - Category: Virology Authors: Tags: Article Source Type: research