Coincidence of microbial findings, complaints and symptoms in a building

Microbial sampling was used to study indoor air quality in a building where the employees had complained about IAQ for many years. In addition, the symptoms and complaints of the employees working in the building were surveyed by MM40-questionnaire. Workers complained about dust, dirt, dry, stuffy air and unpleasant odor. Tiredness and irritation of upper respiratory tracts and eyes were the most common symptoms. IgG antibodies against microbes commonly found in water damaged buildings, were determined from the serum samples of the employees. Over half of the serum samples contained IgG antibodies against microbes found in offices or in supply air systems. The fine filter of every supply air system included, e.g. Aspergillus fumigatus, against which antibodies were common. The microbial findings, IgG antibodies against microbes and workers symptoms indicated microbial exposure originating from ventilation system or moisture damaged constructions.