5 common indoor air pollutants to know this October

The COVID-19 pandemic reminded us just how quickly viral particles can spread. — Dr. Taz Bhatia, Integrative Health Physician, Founder of CentreSpringMD

READING, Pa.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--October is National Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) month, and this year more than ever, it is important to educate and evaluate the IAQ where people live, work, learn and play.

Americans spend more than 90% of their time indoors, and it is vital to understand what is in the air we breathe. Ambius has identified five common air pollutants and how to solve IAQ issues:

1) COVID-19 and other Viruses
The COVID-19 pandemic is the most recent virus to spread across the globe. Aerosol viruses spread through tiny droplets that are expelled into the air when someone coughs or sneezes. A single cough or sneeze can expel germs as far as 27 feet at almost 100 miles an hour. Without proper ventilation these germs can linger in the air and produce an increased risk of cross contamination.

2) Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
The COVID-19 pandemic is the most recent virus to spread across the globe. Aerosol viruses spread through tiny droplets that are expelled into the air when someone coughs or sneezes. A single cough or sneeze can expel germs as far as 27 feet at almost 100 miles an hour. Without proper ventilation these germs can linger in the air and produce an increased risk of cross contamination.

3) Allergens
Allergens such as dust, pollen and pet dander are emitted from everyday office and household items. These particles can attach to skin and clothes and travel from person to person. Exposure to these contaminated particles can cause irritated skin and eyes, nose and throat congestion, respiratory problems and more.

4) Bacteria
Harmful bacteria can quietly form and spread throughout indoor environments. Animal dander, household dust, plant debris and mold are some of the transmitters of bacteria. Exposure to these pollutants can lead to digestive problems, asthma, dizziness along with many other symptoms.

5) Smoke
As wildfires continue to burn across the western U.S., residents are dealing with the lingering effects of wildfire smoke. Additional forms of smoke emitted from home kitchens, restaurants and even vehicles are also extremely harmful to breathe in. Exposure to smoke can damage the lungs and impact lung and heart health. Read More

Source: Business Wire

To learn more about indoor air quality, visit these resources:

• SunRADON Indoor Air Quality FAQs

• EPA Introduction to Indoor Air Quality

• IAQA National Indoor Air Quality Month Resources