Bioaerosols and their role in the transmission of high-risk pathogens have gained renewed scientific focus, especially in light of recent global health challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic. These airborne biological particles, including viruses, bacteria, and fungi, 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 emphasized the importance of mimicking real-world atmospheric conditions when assessing pathogen viability in aerosols, yet major questions persist regarding the interplay of environmental factors, detection limitations, and the mechanisms that underpin both 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 pathogen bioaerosols from a public health perspective. The main objective is to bridge gaps in knowledge by stimulating research into the full transmission cycle of bioaerosols, from initial generation through environmental dispersal to 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 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 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 pathogen bioaerosols propagation, transport, and collection

o Environmental monitoring of bioaerosols

o Physio-chemical interactions within bioaerosols

o Viability and stability of high risk bioaerosols in varied conditions

o Public health impacts and risk assessment of high-risk pathogen bioaerosols

o Genomic and proteomic approaches to bioaerosol study

o Simulation and modelling strategies for pandemic forecasting

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

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