“`html
Health Alert: As summer temperatures soar, health officials are warning of potential respiratory risks linked to poorly maintained air conditioning systems. A new analysis by clinical microbiologists highlights how AC units, while providing relief from heat, can inadvertently contribute to the spread of infections if not properly cared for.
Air conditioners can increase the risk of infection through two primary mechanisms. First, the internal environment of an AC unit can become a breeding ground for microorganisms. Condensation within the system provides a moist environment where bacteria, fungi, and viruses can thrive. These pathogens can then be aerosolized and circulated throughout a building when the AC is running. Specifically, studies have shown Legionella pneumophila, the bacteria responsible for Legionnaires’ disease, can colonize AC systems, particularly cooling towers, posing a meaningful health threat. An outbreak in the Bronx, New York, in 2015, linked to a cooling tower, resulted in 12 deaths and over 100 illnesses.
Secondly,air conditioners reduce humidity.While this can feel agreeable, it also dries out the mucous membranes in the nose and throat. These membranes are a crucial first line of defense against inhaled pathogens. According to research published in Scientific Reports, low-humidity environments impair the mucociliary clearance system – the process by which the respiratory tract removes foreign particles – making individuals more susceptible to respiratory infections and potentially even deep-tissue sinus infections. A 2023 study in the journal Cambridge Core further details how dry air and mouth breathing can trigger inflammation and activate neural pathways due to osmotic stress on airway linings.
Air conditioners are designed with filters to remove airborne contaminants like fungal spores, bacteria, and viruses. Though, the effectiveness of these filters diminishes with use. A clogged or dirty filter considerably reduces airflow and allows pathogens to bypass the filtration system. The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) recommends filter replacement every 1-3 months, depending on usage and filter type. Regular professional cleaning of the entire AC system, including the coils and drain pan, is also crucial. Neglecting this maintenance can led to what are known as air-conditioner-acquired infections, a growing concern in both healthcare facilities and residential buildings.
Primrose Freestone, Senior Lecturer in Clinical Microbiology, University of Leicester
This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative commons license.Read the
