Exposure to microorganisms, febrile and airway-obstructive symptoms, immune status and lung function of Swedish farmers.

Characterization of exposure to molds and actinomycetes in agricultural dusts by scanning electron microscopy, fluorescence microscopy and the culture method.

“…One or two air samples were obtained from 79 farms in the cour se of three studies reported elsewhere (1, 3,12,13). Eighteen farms were from a random sample of farm s on which th e farmer had no respiratory problems (reference farm s).…”

“…Thi s relat ionship can be illustrated by the association with climati c and enviro nmental factors promot ing growth of microorganisms (1, 2) and by direct measurements (3). Exposure to very high concentrations of microorgani sms may ca use a to xic febrile reacti on (I , 4,5,6) even in apparently non sensitized subjects (organic dust tox ic syndrome).…”

HETA 96-0100-2636, Harley-Davidson Motor Company, Tomahawk, Wisconsin.

“…Allergic respiratory diseases resulting from exposures to microbial agents have been documented in agricultural, biotechnology, office, and home environments. 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8 Acceptable levels of airborne microorganisms or bioaerosols have not been established, primarily because allergic reactions can occur even with relatively low air concentrations of allergens, and individuals differ with respect to immunogenic susceptibilities.…”

“…Of course, all non-work exposures and personal medical history must also be considered. 2 Stoddard solvent was used as the standard. * The first day results were noticably higher than the next two days.…”

HETA 96-0093-2685, Microfibres, Inc., Pawtucket, RI.

“…Bacteria and Fungi ---------Allergic asthma, allergic rhinitis, hypersensitivity pneumonitis (11)(12)(13)(14)(15)(16)(17)(18)(19)(20)(21) Endotoxins ---------Fever, airway constriction, acute respiratory symptoms (flu-like illness) (22)(23)(24)(25)(26)(27)(28)(29) …”