Air Quality and Microbial Contamination of Hospital Environments in Warri and Its Environs

Abstract

The quality of air in healthcare environments has become a major public health concern globally, particularly as it relates to the transmission of airborne diseases and hospital-acquired infections (HAIs). The study assessed the microbial contamination and air quality of selected hospital environments in Warri and its environs, with a focus on identifying the types and concentrations of airborne microorganisms, to determine their compliance with World Health Organization (WHO), National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA), and Standards Organization of Nigeria (SON) guidelines. Airborne pollutants such as particulate matters (PM2.5 and PM10), carbon dioxide (CO2), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), methane (CH4), and microbial contaminants were measured using Aeroqual Series 500 monitors and passive culture plate exposure respectively. Results revealed elevated indoor temperatures (29.1°C–32.8°C) and poor ventilation in several departments, especially administrative and emergency units, which corresponded with higher pollutant levels. Hazardous levels of methane (up to 4381 ppm) and VOCs (up to 9458 ppm) were detected, far exceeding recommended indoor limits. Bacterial and fungal analyses identified Bacillus spp., Staphylococcus aureus, Proteus mirabilis, Enterobacter spp., and airborne fungi such as Aspergillus niger, Alternaria spp., and Rhizopus spp. The study established a positive correlation between poor indoor air quality indicators and elevated microbial loads, suggesting a significant risk for hospital-acquired infections (HAIs). These findings highlight the urgent need for continuous air monitoring, improved Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems, and targeted interventions such as High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filtration and microbial surveillance, particularly in high-risk zones.