Aerosolization

Definition

The generation of fine water droplets that can carry waterborne pathogens such as Legionella into the air.

Cooling towers, decorative fountains, showerheads, and any system that produces fine droplets create the aerosols that transmit Legionella. Aerosol generation turns a contained water problem into an inhalation exposure for people nearby. It is one of the key Legionella risk factors driven by system design.

Related concepts

Legionella · Systems thinking · Susceptible population

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Part of The Blueprint of Water · 🛠️ operations