Efficacy of Prevention by High-Efficiency Particulate Air Filtration or Laminar Airflow Against Aspergillus Airborne Contamination During Hospital Renovation

Abstract

This study showed a strong association between building renovation and an increase in environmental Aspergillus contamination. Results confirmed the high efficacy of laminar airflow plus HEPA filtration and a high air-change rate. Although filtration with HEPA was effective during normal conditions, it alone was unable to prevent the rise of Aspergillus contamination related to building renovation. This study emphasized the necessity of an environmental survey of airborne contamination related to construction, to facilitate prevention of nosocomial aspergillosis outbreaks. A standardized protocol for aerobiological surveillance is needed.

Assessment of microbiological air quality in hemato-oncology units and its relationship with the occurrence of invasive fungal infections: an integrative review

“…This theme included four studies [20][21][22][23] that evaluated the effi cacy of HEPA fi lters in reducing the fungal concentration in the air in hemato-oncology units but did not address patient outcomes. Two of the studies found that HEPA fi lter performance was no better than regular air fi ltration 20,21 .…”

Outbreaks of infectious diseases in stem cell transplant units: a silent cause of death for patients and transplant programmes

“…[10][11][12][13] However, the benefits conferred by HEPA filtration require appropriate maintenance, monitoring of positive pressure and education of staff and patients. [14][15][16] Previous colonisation or invasive fungal infection during periods of chemotherapy-induced neutropenia increase the risk of re-emergence of infection in the post transplant period.…”

The utility of intensified environmental surveillance for pathogenic moulds in a stem cell transplantation ward during construction work to monitor the efficacy of HEPA filtration

“…In a study by Cornet et al, 15 the spore counts increased sixfold in haematological patient rooms with HEPA filtration alone, but remained stable in the HEPA-LAF ventilated patient rooms. A correlation has been seen between fungal spore counts and the incidence of IA.…”