MICROBIAL DIVERSITY IN SMOKE: IMPLICATIONS FOR AIR QUALITY AND PUBLIC HEALTH

Abstract

The increasing prevalence of smoke exposure from both natural and anthropogenic sources has raised concerns about its impact on air quality and public health. Smoke is known to carry a diverse range of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, viruses, and archaea, which are dispersed into the atmosphere through various mechanisms. This microbial diversity is influenced by factors such as the source material composition, combustion conditions, and geographic and climatic factors. The presence of these microorganisms in smoke has significant implications for air quality, contributing to elevated levels of particulate matter and interacting with chemical pollutants, which can worsen existing air pollution events. From a public health perspective, smoke-borne microbes are associated with respiratory problems, including allergies, asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Infections caused by opportunistic pathogens, such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Aspergillus spp., are also a major concern. Additionally, microbial-laden particulates have been linked to cardiovascular diseases and immune system modulation. As climate change is expected to exacerbate the frequency and intensity of smoke events, the need for comprehensive strategies to monitor and manage microbial contamination in smoke becomes increasingly critical. This paper discusses the sources, dispersal mechanisms, and health implications of microbial diversity in smoke, emphasizing the need for enhanced public health policies and air quality management to mitigate its adverse effects.