• 한국환경보건학회지
• /
• 제42권6호
• /
• pp.438-449
• /
• 2016

Objectives: Exposure to airborne bacteria is associated with adverse health effects such as respiratory and infectious diseases. This study evaluated airborne bacterial concentrations in the living rooms, kitchens, and toilets of 30 homes. Methods: Bacteria were sampled with an MAS100 impactor in three spaces in the subject homes between April 2014 and February 2015. Bacteria were grown on TSA plates for 48 hours at $35^{\circ}C$. The bacterial strains were isolated and amplified by polymerase chain reaction. Results: The most culturable bacteria were found in toilets ($624.0CFU/m^3$, GM: $417.3CFU/m^3$), followed by in the kitchen ($503.8CFU/m^3$, GM: $324.9CFU/m^3$). The dominant genera identified were: Staphylococcus sp.(19%), Micrococcus sp.(16%), and Bacillus sp.(11%) in the indoor air and Bacillus sp. (30%) in the outdoor air. Gram-positive bacteria comprised more than half of all colonies. Conclusion: In this study, culturable bacteria concentrations were higher than those reported in other spaces. Therefore, it is important to control relative humidity and remove moisture to prevent bacteria from multiplying. Additionally, the dominant species in indoor air were Staphylococcus sp. and Micrococcus sp. These are found on the human skin, mucous membranes, and hair, so human activity can affect bacterial distribution. Therefore, cleaning and controlling moisture are important for reducing indoor bacterial concentrations.