The Use of Air Conditioners Can Cause Infections

• The syndrome of sick building is associated with the use of air conditioners.
• Improper maintenance of systems can cause infections.
• Regular maintenance of air conditioners reduces the risk of infections.

Air conditioning provides comfort during hot days by controlling temperature and humidity. However, some people avoid it, believing that it can lead to infections. This myth is not baseless, as improperly maintained air conditioners can become a source of infection.

The term "sick building syndrome" describes symptoms that can occur in individuals who spend a lot of time in air-conditioned spaces. Symptoms include headache, fatigue, nasal congestion, cough, and general malaise. Research in 2023 in India showed that office workers where air conditioners are used more frequently experience these symptoms.

Improper operation of an air conditioner can contribute to the spread of allergens and microbes. For example, the bacterium Legionella pneumophila, which causes Legionnaires' disease, can thrive in air conditioning systems. Symptoms include cough, shortness of breath, and fever.

Moreover, air conditioners can be a source of fungal and viral infections. For instance, studies have shown that air conditioning systems can accumulate fungi such as Aspergillus, which can cause serious infections in vulnerable patients.

Regular maintenance of air conditioners can reduce the risk of infections, as they are capable of filtering out harmful substances. It is important to ensure the cleanliness of filters and regular maintenance of systems to prevent infections.

Tags: Technology/Devices