Impact of improved indoor environment on recovery from COVID-19 infections: a review of literature

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dc.contributor.authorAcquah, Godwin Kojo Kumi
dc.date.accessioned2024-07-14T18:10:41Z
dc.date.available2024-07-14T18:10:41Z
dc.date.issued2022
dc.description.abstractPurpose – This study aims to explore the impact of the indoor environment on recovery from COVID-19 infections. Extant literature on the impact of the four key themes of the indoor environment (indoor air quality, indoor thermal quality, daylighting and visual comfort, and acoustic comfort) on COVID-19 infection and recovery rates were reviewed. Design/methodology/approach – Data collection for this study was based on extant literature within the Scopus database and scoped to a time frame of 2020–2021 because the topical issue of indoor environmental quality (IEQ) and its impact on COVID-19 arose in the wake of the pandemic. In total, 224 documents were systematically desk reviewed from various journals. Findings – The study identified that air pollutants such as PM2.5 and PM10 as well as air conditioned places, low ambient temperatures, poor ventilation and no views of the outdoor environment were deteriorating factors for COVID-19 patients. On the other hand, proper ventilation, the use of air cleaners, views of the outdoor environment and allowance for ample daylighting were improvement factors for COVID-19 patients. The inter-relationship of the various concepts was presented in an ontology chart. Practical implications – As COVID-19 still exists and keeps evolving, this study provides suggestions to industry professionals, especially health-care Facility Managers, to create a post-pandemic environment focusing on the IEQ and finding long-term and reliable solutions for the well-being of occupants. Adaptability is crucial. New, creative technology solutions are being introduced daily, but it is up to the facility managers and health-care professionals to analyse and specify the most cost- and outcome-effective technologies for their facility. Originality/value – The study brought to light the pivotal role of the indoor environment on the health and well-being of occupants, particularly in the contraction, spread, prevention and control of infectious diseases such as COVID-19.
dc.identifier.citationAfful, A.E., Osei Assibey Antwi, A.D.D., Ayarkwa, J. and Acquah, G.K.K., 2022. Impact of improved indoor environment on recovery from COVID-19 infections: a review of literature. Facilities, 40(11/12), pp.719-736.
dc.identifier.issn0263-2772
dc.identifier.urihttps://ir.knust.edu.gh/handle/123456789/15825
dc.language.isoen
dc.publisherEmerald Publishing
dc.titleImpact of improved indoor environment on recovery from COVID-19 infections: a review of literature
dc.typeArticle
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