Surface Microbial Activity in Hurricane Ian Affected Homes in Relation To Environmental Factors.

Presenters and Authors

Oluwatoyin Ayo-Farai, Georgia Southern University, Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public HealthFollow
Jayanta Gupta, Department of Health Sciences, Florida Gulf Coast University
Victor Ezeamii, Georgia Southern University, Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health
Michael Savarese, Department of Marine and Earth Sciences, Florida Gulf Coast University,Follow
Atin Adhikari, Georgia Southern University, Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health

Abstract

Introduction

Contaminated water from hurricane-related floods can lead to the growth of harmful microbes, which can pose a threat to human health and lead to several public health risks. In this study, we investigated the surface microbial activity and relevant environmental factors in Hurricane Ian-affected coastal homes.

Methods

Surface microbial contamination was assessed by swabs and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) bioluminescence assay kits to quantify microbial activity. Environmental factors (moisture, relative humidity and temperature) were measured by portable tools.

Results

The findings from 13 sampled homes are as follows - the levels of microbial activity (mean and SDs) in flood-affected homes were: 1) Floors: 583.1±1002.4 2) Door handles: 197.8±287.4 3) Table: 167.4±325.5 and 4) Walls: 35±55.6 RLU. The levels (means ± SDs) of temperature and relative humidity were: 24.60 ± 0.85 ° C, 64.0 ± 2.07 %. The surface moisture levels (means ± SDs) were as follows: 1) Walls: 11.1±4.2 2) Table:6.6±5.3 3) Floors: 4.5±6.1 %. The hidden moisture levels (mean ± SDs) were as follows: 1) Floors:23.8±20 2) Table:17.9±11.6 3) Walls:12.9±12.2 4) Ceiling:10.2±11.8%.

Conclusion

The different microbial activity and moisture levels on the floors, walls, and tables suggest that some areas of the homes are particularly susceptible to microbial growth. The presence of hidden moisture in the floors suggests that there may be ongoing water damage that is not visible to the naked eye. It is important to take post-flood steps to initiate remediation processes (removing wet materials, e.g. drywall and insulation, using dehumidifiers to remove moisture, cleaning, and disinfection). Continuous monitoring of homes for moisture and microbial growth is recommended.

Keywords: Hurricane Ian, Microbial activity, Hidden moisture.

Keywords

Hurricane Ian, Microbial activity, Hidden moisture, Environmental factors

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