MOBILE LABORATORY UNIT FOR EXPOSURE OF ANIMALS + HUMAN VOLUNTEERS TO BACTERIAL + VIRAL AEROSOLS

Abstract

The results of the tests performed indicate that the mobile laboratory exposure unit is safe for operating personnel if they wear plastic ventilated hoods and protective clothing, and shower when finished. In order to present a reliable dose, it was necessary to make preliminary tests before any exposure trial to determine the spray factor. Casella slit samplers were shown to be more accurate for sampling dilute aerosols than liquid impingers. There was no significant difference between recoveries of the small-particle aerosols at the sampling and exposure ports. The high degree of efficiency of this laboratory unit and the use of living vaccine cells of Pasteurella tularensis have made it possible to determine respiratory dosages quantitatively and to immunize humans via the respiratory route.