MEV 018: Unit 09 – Air Borne Diseases

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 UNIT 9: AIRBORNE DISEASES

9.0 Introduction

Air is essential for life, yet it can also serve as a carrier for various pollutants and pathogens that adversely affect human health. Airborne diseases are primarily spread through tiny droplets suspended in the air, which may contain viruses, bacteria, or chemical pollutants. With increasing air pollution—both indoors and outdoors—there is a notable rise in respiratory disorders, allergic reactions, and infections, especially among vulnerable groups like children and the elderly. This unit examines the sources of air pollution, major airborne diseases, and methods to reduce exposure, with special attention to agriculture-based and indoor pollution.

9.1 Objectives

After studying this unit, learners will be able to:

  • Identify the types of air pollutants and their effects on human health.
  • Explain various respiratory diseases caused by airborne viruses and bacteria.
  • Understand the vulnerability of children and elders to air pollution.
  • Analyze agricultural sources of air pollution and control strategies.
  • Recognize sources of indoor air pollution and ways to reduce them.

9.2 Air Pollution and Human Health

Air pollution refers to the presence of harmful substances in the air that can impact human health, vegetation, animals, and buildings.

9.2.1 Air Pollutants

Air pollutants can be classified into two categories:

  • Primary Pollutants: Directly emitted into the air (e.g., carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, particulate matter).
  • Secondary Pollutants: Formed through chemical reactions in the atmosphere (e.g., ozone, smog).

Common Air Pollutants:

  • Particulate Matter (PM10, PM2.5)
  • Sulfur Dioxide (SO₂)
  • Nitrogen Oxides (NOx)
  • Carbon Monoxide (CO)
  • Ozone (O₃)
  • Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)

9.2.2 Health Effects of Specific Air Pollutants

Pollutant

Major Health Effects

PM2.5 & PM10

Lung irritation, asthma, cardiovascular diseases

CO

Headache, fatigue, impaired vision, death in high concentrations

NOx

Aggravates asthma, reduces lung function

SO₂

Respiratory problems, especially in people with asthma

O₃

Chest pain, coughing, throat irritation

VOCs

Eye/nose irritation, liver and kidney damage, carcinogenic

9.3 Respiratory Diseases

Airborne diseases are transmitted through tiny droplets from coughing, sneezing, or even speaking. These droplets can remain suspended and infect others via inhalation.

9.3.1 Airborne Diseases Caused by Viruses

  • Influenza (Flu): Caused by influenza viruses, leads to fever, cough, and body aches.
  • COVID-19: Caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, spreads through respiratory droplets and aerosols.
  • Measles: Highly contagious, leads to rash, fever, and respiratory symptoms.
  • Common Cold: Caused by rhinoviruses, spread via air or contact with contaminated surfaces.

9.3.2 Airborne Diseases Caused by Bacteria

  • Tuberculosis (TB): Caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, spread through prolonged exposure to infected air droplets.
  • Whooping Cough (Pertussis): Caused by Bordetella pertussis, common in infants.
  • Diphtheria: Caused by Corynebacteriumdiphtheriae, can cause severe throat infections.

9.3.3 Vulnerability to Children and Elders

  • Children: Still-developing lungs, higher breathing rates, and outdoor activity make them more susceptible.
  • Elderly: Weakened immune systems and pre-existing health conditions increase risk.
  • Health Outcomes:
    • Increased asthma attacks
    • Reduced lung growth (children)
    • Higher hospitalization and mortality (elders)

9.4 Agriculture-Based Air Pollution

Agricultural activities significantly contribute to air pollution through the release of particulate matter, ammonia, and methane.

9.4.1 Main Pollutants from Agricultural Activities

  • Ammonia (NH₃): From livestock waste and fertilizers; reacts to form secondary particulate matter.
  • Methane (CH₄): Emitted by rice paddies and cattle digestion.
  • Pesticide Spray Drift: Fine particles contaminate air and affect nearby populations.
  • Dust from Tilling: Suspends particles, leading to local air quality degradation.
  • Burning of Crop Residue: Releases CO₂, CO, black carbon, and PM.

9.4.2 Ways to Decrease Pollution Emission by Agricultural Activities

  • Use of bio-fertilizers instead of synthetic ones.
  • Adoption of zero-tillage or conservation agriculture.
  • Proper manure management and composting.
  • Ban or control on open stubble burning.
  • Use of drip irrigation and precision agriculture to minimize emissions.

9.5 Indoor Air Pollution

Indoor air pollution is often overlooked but can be more harmful than outdoor air, especially in poorly ventilated homes.

9.5.1 Sources of Indoor Air Pollution

  • Biomass burning (wood, dung, coal) for cooking and heating.
  • Tobacco smoke
  • Chemical cleaners and aerosol sprays
  • Poor ventilation
  • Asbestos, formaldehyde, and lead-based paints
  • Mould and mildew in damp areas

9.5.2 Reducing Indoor Air Pollution

  • Promote the use of clean cooking fuels (e.g., LPG, electricity).
  • Improve ventilation systems (chimneys, exhaust fans).
  • Avoid use of volatile organic compounds in household products.
  • Regular maintenance of air filters and dehumidifiers.
  • Encourage no-smoking zones indoors.

9.6 Let Us Sum Up

This unit highlighted the serious health risks associated with airborne diseases and pollutants. Both viral and bacterial infections spread through air are exacerbated by environmental pollutants. Agricultural and indoor air pollution further compound these risks, especially for vulnerable populations. Understanding the sources and effects of pollutants, along with adopting pollution-reduction strategies, is crucial for improving public health outcomes.

9.7 Key Words

  • Airborne Diseases: Illnesses spread through air via droplets or particles.
  • Air Pollutants: Substances in the air harmful to health or the environment.
  • Particulate Matter (PM): Tiny particles that can penetrate deep into the lungs.
  • Indoor Air Pollution: Contamination of air inside homes or buildings.
  • Agricultural Air Pollution: Emissions from farming activities contributing to atmospheric pollutants.
  • Respiratory Illnesses: Diseases affecting lungs and breathing, often linked to air quality.

 

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