Identification allergen Cladosporium spores concentration in the ambient of Ahvaz wastewater treatment plant and their relationship with meteorological variables, Ahvaz, Iran

Abstract

Introduction: Airborne Cladosporium spores in different regions of the world are known as the main cause of allergic diseases. This study aimed to identify the Cladosporium species airborne fungi in Ahvaz wastewater treat- ment plant area and its adjacent places and check the effect of some meteoro- logical parameters on their emissions.

Materials and methods: Cladosporium spores were cultured on Sabouraud`s dextrose agar (SDA) medium in both cold and warm seasons. The passive sampling method was performed and after incubation, colonies were counted as CFU/Plate/h. Then, according to the macroscopic and microscopic charac- teristics of the genus, the fungal was studied. The meteorological parameters including temperature, humidity, air pressure, dew point, wind speed, and ultraviolet index were measured.

Results: At least, 3358 colonies were counted. 1433 colonies were related  to the Cladosporium species. The amount of Cladosporium in indoor air was 46% of the total Cladosporium. The average of meteorological parameters includes temperature, humidity, air pressure, dew point, wind speed and UV index during the study were 27.8 °C, 32.9%, 548.7 °Kpa, 3.6°, 9.1 km / h and 3.9 respectively. 42.6% of the total number of colonies was related to the Cladosporium species. Cladospiromes had a direct correlation with the dew point, temperature, humidity, air pressure, wind speed, and ultraviolet index (Pvalue<0.05). Primary sludge dewatering has the greatest role in the Cladospo-

rium spores emission.

Conclusion: Considering the importance of Cladosporium spores in the ap- pearance of allergic diseases, and given that wastewater treatment workers spend most of their time outside, observing health and preventive measures is necessary in this regard.