Biological pollutants, such as molds, bacteria, pollen, dust mites, and animal dander which promote poor indoor air quality and may be a major cause of days lost from work and school. In office buildings, heating, cooling and ventilating systems are frequent sources of biological substances which, when inhaled, lead to breathing problems.

Pneumonia

The major types of pneumonia are bacterial pneumonia, viral pneumonia, and mycoplasma pneumonia. Certain diseases, such as tuberculosis, can also cause pneumonia.

People considered at high risk for pneumonia include the elderly, the very young, and those with underlying health problems, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), diabetes mellitus, congestive heart failure and sickle cell anemia. Patients with diseases that impair the immune system, such as AIDS, or patients with other chronic illnesses, such as asthma, or those undergoing cancer therapy or organ transplantation, are particularly vulnerable.

Respiratory Syncytial Virus

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is responsible for many respiratory infections such as bronchiolitis, bronchopneumonia, and the common cold. RSV diseases are most common in young children. RSV causes approximately 90,000 hospitalizations and 4,500 deaths each year in both infants and young children (in the U.S.).

The virus is spread by hand-to-hand contact with any object harboring the pathogen. Infection is introduced by contact with the mucous membranes of the eyes and nose. It may also be spread by droplets from a cough or sneeze.

RSV infections can be fatal in premature babies less than six months old and in infants with chronic lung, heart, or immune deficiency diseases. Infections may require hospitalization; infants experiencing severe infections may require mechanical ventilation.