A review on microbial aerosols in livestock and poultry environments: pollution characteristics, damage mechanisms, and mitigation measures

Livestock and poultry breeding environments suffer from serious microbial aerosol pollution, posing a significant challenge to maintaining healthy animal rearing. This study reviewed the sources, pollution status, hazards, pathogenic mechanisms, and mitigation measures of microbial aerosols in livestock and poultry breeding settings, based on research conducted over the past two decades. Notably, the study analyzed the distribution characteristics of aerosol components in various animal houses, with a focus on identifying the main factors affecting these characteristics and the molecular mechanisms by which they damage the animal immune system. Quantitative analysis revealed varying concentrations of bacterial and fungal aerosols in different animal houses, with poultry houses often exhibiting higher concentrations. The dominant bacterial and fungal species varied across different animal houses, emphasizing the complex composition of microbial aerosols. Furthermore, antibiotic-resistant bacteria and genes, particularly those resistant to tetracycline, are prevalent in these environments, challenging disease prevention and control efforts. Thus, the infection source must be controlled through isolation measures and proper waste management. Proper disinfectant use, responsible antibiotic stewardship, biosecurity measures, and alternative disease prevention strategies should be implemented. Future research should focus on developing monitoring technologies for pathogenic microorganisms, implementing purification technologies, and investigating the immune-damaging mechanisms of microbial aerosols. By addressing these areas, we can further understand microbial aerosols in livestock and poultry environments and develop effective strategies to mitigate their harmful effects. This review contributes to the sustainable development of animal farming to ensure the health and welfare of animals.