Viruses: A Potentially Virulent IAQ Problem
What viruses are
Viruses and antibiotics
What Viruses Are
Viruses are living, biological contaminants some of which can travel through the air and are invisible. Viruses, like other biological contaminants, may contribute to poor indoor air quality and may be a major cause of days lost from work and school. Airborne viruses come from infected people or animals and can be spread through ventilation systems.
The most deadly and dangerous viruses (like HIV and hepatitis) are not spread through the air. Viruses found in the air of indoor environments include:
The lowest concentrations of viruses are generally found at humidity levels between 50 percent and 70 percent.
Viruses and Antibiotics
Antibiotics do not work on viruses so DO NOT take any antibiotics (especially any that may be "left over" from a previous illness) unless a doctor feels it is medically necessary. All too often, patients insist on antibiotics to help them get over the flu or a cold. These do not work and can just result in more problems in the future.