High Risk Pathogen Bioaerosols: Research and Challenges from Public Health Perspectives

Bioaerosols and their role in the transmission of high-risk viruses have gained renewed scientific focus, especially in light of recent global health challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic. These airborne biological particles are key agents in the propagation of infectious diseases, posing significant public health risks. Despite progress in understanding their generation and dispersal from sources like infected individuals, the complex processes governing their environmental transport, survival, and infectivity remain only partially understood. Empirical studies have increasingly emphasised the importance of mimicking real-world atmospheric conditions when assessing the viability of virus pathogens in aerosols; yet, major questions persist regarding the interplay of environmental factors, detection limitations, and the mechanisms that underpin both the survival and decay of these pathogens outside host organisms.

This Research Topic aims to consolidate cutting-edge insights and emerging challenges in the study of high-risk virus bioaerosols from a public health perspective. The primary objective is to bridge knowledge gaps by stimulating research into the complete transmission cycle of virus bioaerosols, from initial generation through environmental dispersal to the eventual infection of new hosts. By bringing together innovative empirical research, advanced modelling, and genomic and proteomic analyses, this topic seeks to foster a holistic understanding of virus bioaerosol dynamics and to support the development of more robust epidemiological frameworks and pandemic risk analysis strategies.

Studies included in this Research Topic may range from fundamental investigations of virus bioaerosol behaviour to applied modelling and epidemiological assessments. Manuscripts focusing on methodological advancements, experimental or real-world data on detection and quantification, or highlighting challenges in experimental design are especially encouraged.

To gather further insights across the full continuum of research, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:
o High-risk virus bioaerosols propagation, transport, and collection
o Environmental monitoring and physicochemical interactions within virus bioaerosols
o Viability and stability of high-risk virus bioaerosols in varied conditions
o Public health impacts and risk assessment of high-risk virus bioaerosols
o Genomic and proteomic approaches to virus bioaerosol study
o Simulation and modelling strategies for pandemic forecasting

Appendix:
This Research Topic accepts original research, reviews, perspectives, methods, and case studies.