Science Speaks – Frontrunner 2
Pandemics in the past have often been caused by viruses that spread through air. Knowing how viruses travel through the air – for example via small droplets, large droplets, or direct contact – is crucial to limit their spread. However, measuring how these so-called ‘airborne viruses’ travel is notoriously difficult. In this episode of Science Speaks, we talk to the researchers of PDPC Frontrunner 2 about their strategy for predicting, measuring and quantifying the spread of airborne viruses.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, it was advised to wear a facemask, keep 1.5 meter distance, and to stay away from unventilated indoor spaces. But what was this advice based on? Frontrunner 2 researchers Yunus Aksoy, Suzanne Mijnhardt, Kain Saygan and Arghyanir Giri are investigating this exact question. In the video, they explain what they do and why.
Yunus, postdoctoral researcher at TU Eindhoven, is developing a machine that can catch viruses from the air without destroying them. This machine, called an ‘air sampler’, can be used to check how many infectious viruses are in the air, and where they build up in a room. The air sampler is tested in the lab by Suzanne, PhD researcher at the Erasmus MC. She tests how well the air sampler can capture different viruses that are most likely to cause the next pandemic, such as corona- and influenza (flu) viruses.
Kain, PhD researcher at the Erasmus MC, then takes the air sampler to real-life settings, like hospitals and schools. His research is an important bridge from the laboratory to the real world. Arghyanir, PhD researcher at TU Delft, studies how air moves inside buildings, and how (talking and breathing) humans influence this. With both real-world data and calculations with a computer, his research can inform us how buildings are best ventilated. Ultimately, the knowledge and methods developed by the Frontrunner 2 researchers will help us to take more effective measures during a pandemic.
Read more about Frontrunner 2 research and recent publications here!
