Today, HERA in collaboration with the Joint Research Centre (JRC), the Commission’s science and knowledge centre, have published ‘Suppressing Indoor Pathogen Transmission: A Technology Foresight Study’ assessing technologies for managing indoor pathogen transmission. Stemming from a collaborative HERA-JRC workshop organised with the participation of over thirty experts in the field, the research investigated the management of indoor pathogen transmission, aiming to inform policymakers and health industry stakeholders about the most effective approaches, particularly in the context of pandemics like COVID-19.
Airborne pathogens are a significant pandemic risk due to their wide dissemination and the prolonged suspension of aerosolized particles in indoor environments. Even outside a pandemic, both the public health and economic costs of seasonal respiratory diseases are immense. The research delved into the technological landscape aimed at mitigating indoor airborne pathogen transmission, crucial for public health efforts in disease prevention. The investigation explored technologies for pathogen detection and air and surface decontamination. It identified key technologies in each group, evaluated their maturity, impact, and potential funding priorities. Additionally, the analysis delved into factors that influenced technology development and adoption, offering insights into future implementation. Their use to deal with forward-looking scenarios for potential health crises was considered, alongside recommendations for policy and research to address challenges and seize opportunities in indoor air quality management.
Evaluating both current and emerging technologies, the research shed light on their strengths and potential challenges. Among the key findings, well-established filtration and ventilation systems emerged as top performers in capturing and cleansing indoor air of germs. UV radiation and nucleic acid amplification also ranked high in terms of impact. The study also highlighted the need for a nuanced approach in selecting technologies, considering factors such as energy consumption, deployment limitations, and cost-effectiveness. For instance, filtration and ventilation systems, while effective, may entail substantial energy consumption. Similarly, UV radiation, although proficient in sterilization, poses potential hazards to human health if not deployed with caution.
The recommendations included the development of a comprehensive strategy for indoor air quality, necessitating collaboration among various stakeholders. This strategy should provide guidance on healthy concentration limits for pathogens in indoor air, balancing disease prevention with the preservation of the human microbiome and immune system. The pivotal roles of investment and regulatory guidance in propelling technological advancements in indoor pathogen management were highlighted. Emphasizing the significance of comprehensive strategies for indoor air quality, the need for collaboration among diverse stakeholders, including healthcare professionals, architects, scientists, and regulators, was stressed.
Looking ahead, promising emerging technologies like biosensors and aerosol samplers were identified, signalling the need for additional development and refinement. Additionally, scenario planning exercises emphasized the importance of tailoring technology choices to specific health crises, such as tuberculosis outbreaks or influenza pandemics.
The JRC-HERA study exemplifies the power of foresight in informing evidence-based policymaking. By anticipating future challenges and opportunities, policymakers can develop resilient strategies to address emerging health threats effectively. As the world continues to grapple with the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, initiatives like these play a crucial role in enhancing global health preparedness and response.
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- Publication date
- 17 April 2024
- Author
- Health Emergency Preparedness and Response Authority