New Discovery Links CO2 Levels Above 800 PPM to Increased SARS-CoV-2 Aerostability, Challenging Ventilation Doctrines: STAT

Jun 4, 2024, 11:52 AM

New research is challenging decades-old ventilation doctrines by revealing that higher atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) concentrations increase the aerostability of SARS-CoV-2, thereby enhancing the chances of infection. This discovery suggests that CO2 levels serve as a proxy for the amount of exhaled, potentially infectious air in a room. The findings, supported by the work of Haddrell's team and reported by STAT, indicate that airborne diseases thrive at CO2 levels greater than 800 parts per million (PPM). This revelation, highlighted by Megan Molteni, is transforming the way scientists study airborne pathogens and has implications for indoor air quality management.