Survey of bioaerosols type and concentration in the ambient air of hospitals in Damghan, Iran

Bioaerosol spreading in different parts of hospitals are known as hazardous factors for health، which play a major role in hospital infection. The object of this study was to investigate the possibility of microorganisms in the air، including fungal spores and bacteria in the air of different parts of hospitals. This was a cross-sectional study carried out in 1390. Air samples were collected using bioaerosol sampling pumps and Sabro dextrose agar and Chapman agar plates. Bioaerosols were counted as the number of colonies per cubic meter of air. Finally، the types of microorganisms were detected using a microscope. The results of the present study showed that the surgical ward at Rezai hospital and labour room of the 11th of Muharram hospital had the highest concentrations of fungal contamination. Intensive care unit (ICU) and radiology wards at Rezai Hospital as well as the examination room in the 11th of Muharram hospital had the lowest concentration of contamination. In addition، the highest concentration of staphylococcus was seen in pediatric wards at Rezai hospital. The lowest pollution contamination concentration was observed in ultrasonagraphy and kitchen. The results showed that aspergillus and penicillium species were the most frequent types of fungi in hospital environment. In this study، bioaerosol concentrations in different parts of the hospitals were different while the types of microorganisms dispersed at hospital environment were similar، thus there is the possibility of occupational exposure for workers in different parts of hospital.