*Bio-Threats and Filtration*
I've been researching the particulate sizes of common bio-threats. Before buying any type of filters, you must know the minimum size particle it can filter.
These are the most common Bio-Threats and their filtration info.
Anthrax
Source: Spore
Particle Size in Microns: 1 - 5 (very large)
Contagious: No
Method of transmission: Inhaling items contaminated with the spores
Small Pox
Source: Virus
Particle Size in Microns: 0.15 - 0.3 (Very small)
Contagious: YES
Method of transmission: Airborne, skin contact
Tularemia
Source: Bacteria
Particle Size in Microns: 0.125 - 0.7 (very small)
Contagious: No
Botulism
Source: Bacteria
Particle Size in Microns: Unavailable
Contagious: No
Method of Transmission: Eating food contaminated with the bacteria (Typically NOT airborne,
however, there are thoughts that it can be placed into a weapon and dispersed for
airborne/skin contact transmission).
Pneumonic Plague
Source: Bacteria
Particle Size in Microns: 0.5 - 2 (small to moderate)
Contagious: YES
Method of Transmission: Airborne, skin contact
Bubonic Plague
Source: Bacteria
Particle Size in Microns: 0.5 - 2 (small to moderate)
Contagious: YES
Method of transmission: Typically from Flea bites of fleas that were on infected Rats/Rodents
(Typically NOT airborne).
So when looking at HEPA filters, they must filter down to AT LEAST 0.15 Microns to effectively filter Small Pox.
Just some more stuff to think about!
PaleHorse
All materials at this site not otherwise credited are Copyright © 1996 - 2002 Trip Williams. All rights reserved. May be reproduced for personal use only. Use of any material contained herein is subject to stated terms or written permission.