The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued updated guidance on indoor air quality strategies aimed at preventing the spread of common respiratory viruses in various environments, including homes, schools, offices, and commercial buildings. This update aligns with recent ventilation recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Joseph Goffman, Assistant Administrator for EPA’s Office of Air and Radiation, emphasized the importance of this guidance: “This updated guidance will be a valuable tool in protecting against the spread of common airborne respiratory viruses indoors, where we spend about 90% of our time.” He highlighted that alongside immunizations and handwashing, promoting healthier indoor air is crucial in curbing the spread of these viruses.
The revised guidelines detail several ventilation strategies as part of a comprehensive approach to limit virus transmission indoors. These include opening doors and windows to enhance airflow, upgrading filters in heating and cooling systems, using portable air cleaners, circulating air with fans, and employing exhaust or attic fans to reduce airborne virus particles. The document also covers air treatment technologies, administrative controls, cleaning practices, and specific strategies for public spaces like schools and offices.
Indoor air pollution can have significant health impacts similar to outdoor pollution. Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) pertains to the quality of air within buildings concerning occupants' health and comfort. Vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and individuals with conditions like asthma are particularly affected by poor IAQ.
Respiratory viruses tend to spread more easily indoors due to higher viral concentrations when people are close together. Annually in the United States, these viruses cause millions of illnesses along with numerous hospitalizations and deaths. Besides COVID-19's causative virus, other airborne respiratory viruses like influenza (flu) and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) also pose risks indoors.
Ventilation combined with filtration forms a critical component of reducing virus spread inside buildings. Increasing outdoor airflow into indoor spaces is vital for minimizing viral transmission risks. When improving ventilation is difficult, alternatives such as treating or cleaning indoor air through HVAC system filters or portable devices should be considered. However, these measures alone may not suffice; they must be integrated with other preventive actions recommended by health authorities like the CDC.
