Indoor Air sciences CSMI Practice Exam

What does ID50 refer to in the context of bioaerosols?

1. An infection in 50 percent of exposed susceptible hosts

2. An infection in 50 percent of exposed lab rats

3. An infection in 50 percent of exposed workers

4. An infection in 50 percent of exposed occupants

The correct answer is: An infection in 50 percent of exposed susceptible hosts

ID50, or Infectious Dose 50, refers to the quantity of a biological agent, such as a pathogen or bioaerosol, required to cause infection in 50 percent of exposed susceptible hosts. This concept is crucial in understanding the risk assessment related to bioaerosols, which can include bacteria, viruses, or fungal spores that become airborne and can potentially lead to respiratory infections or other health issues. The ID50 value is indicative of the virulence and infection potential of pathogens. In the context of bioaerosols, it helps scientists and public health officials evaluate how many viable particles are necessary to infect a significant portion of a population under exposure. This measurement is vital for setting safety guidelines and determining necessary precautions in environments where bioaerosols are present. The other options, while mentioning groups of subjects that might be exposed—like lab rats, workers, or occupants—do not capture the broader scope of ID50 as it specifically relates to any susceptible host population. Hence, the correct understanding centers around the infection of 50 percent of exposed susceptible hosts, rather than being confined to specific groups or species.