Distribution characteristics and potential risks of bioaerosols during scattered farming

Abstract

In most economically underdeveloped areas, scattered farming and cohabitation of humans and livestock are still common. However, the production and harm of bioaerosol in these areas have not received considerable attention. In this study, bioaerosol characteristics were analyzed in scattered farming in rural areas of Northwest China. The results showed that the highest concentrations of bacteria, fungi, and Enterobacteria were 125609 ± 467 CFU/m³, 25175 ± 10305 CFU/m³, and 4167 ± 592 CFU/m³, respectively; most of the bioaerosols had particle sizes larger than 3.3 µm. 71 bacterial genera and 16 fungal genera of the potential pathogen were identified, and some zoonotic potential pathogenic genera such as Bacillus, Campylobacter, Alternaria, Aspergillus, and Penicillium were found among them. The potential exposure risk was estimated using the average daily dose rate assessment method. While the risk values are higher for adults, the potential exposure risks may be higher for left-behind children and the elderly. Moreover, our findings showed that the scattered farming pattern of human-animal coexistence can affect the indoor air environment in the surrounding area, leading to chronic respiratory diseases in the occupants. Therefore, the corresponding government departments and farmers should enhance their awareness of bioaerosol risks to reduce the incidence of infection.