Invisible threats: urgent need to monitor bioaerosols and antimicrobial resistance at landfill sites

Landfill sites, which serve as the primary means of waste disposal, have become a growing concern due to the potential health risks associated with the generation and release of bioaerosols. The landfill sites are the reservoir of organic waste which provides required nutrients for the proliferation of microbes, which are subsequently released as bioaerosols in the air due to various anthropogenic and natural dispersion processes. Bioaerosols can carry pathogenic bacteria, viruses, and fungi that can cause respiratory diseases in humans. Hence, exposure to these bioaerosols can lead to infectious as well as allergic health problems, especially in occupations involving waste management. Bioaerosols can cause infectious and respiratory diseases, including influenza, pneumonia, tuberculosis, Legionnaires disease, Pontiac fever, and pertussis. Vulnerable populations, such as children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions, may be particularly susceptible to the adverse health effects. Fungal aerosols can also spread and cause skin and respiratory conditions, endangering workers in recycling and waste disposal sites.

The review highlights the importance of monitoring microbial air quality at landfill sites to protect workers and residents from potential risks associated with exposure to airborne microbes.

Graphic Abstract