Airborne Microorganisms, Endotoxin, and (1→3)-β-<sc>D</sc>-Glucan Exposure in Greenhouses and Assessment of Respiratory Symptoms Among Workers

Abstract

The collected data indicate that workers employed in Midwest greenhouses may be exposed to elevated levels of inhalable culturable microorganisms (fungi and bacteria collectively on the order of 10(2)-10(5) CFU m(-3)), endotoxin (10(1)-10(3) EU m(-3)), and (1→3)-β-D-glucan (10(1)-10(2) ng m(-3)). Seasonal variations were observed for some bioaerosol components. The prevalence of self-reported respiratory symptoms was generally higher among greenhouse workers compared to controls; however, the differences were not statistically significant, likely due to the relatively low statistical power of the study.