Biological contaminants in indoor environments of educational institutions

Abstract

Biological contaminants mainly consisting of living or dead microorganisms and compounds or fragments of plants and animal origin are gaining widespread research interest in recent years due to their ubiquitous presence along with their health effects on humans. Students spend a significant time of the day in educational institutions, which increases the cumulative health risk over the years. This review discusses the major biological contaminants, sampling strategies, health effects, and the factors affecting their prevalence in educational institutions. Fungi and bacteria were the most reported bio-contaminants followed by allergens and endotoxins. Exposure to bio-contaminants may result in acute and chronic respiratory diseases, infectious diseases, allergies, building-related illnesses, and even cancer. More research is needed to know the susceptibility of different age groups of students, formulation of guideline values, standard protocols for sampling, and proper diagnostic tests for diseases caused by bio-contaminants. Students should be made aware of the various aspects of indoor air quality such that they become inquisitive towards the same and become responsible for safety and hygiene.