# Distribution of Airborne Fungi in Vehicles and Its Association with Usage Patterns

## TL;DR

This study explores how fungi in car cabins are linked to how vehicles are used and maintained, highlighting health risks from common fungal genera.

## Contribution

The study identifies specific vehicle usage and maintenance factors that influence airborne fungal communities in private vehicles.

## Key findings

- Cladosporium, Aspergillus, and Penicillium were the most frequently isolated fungal genera in vehicle cabins.
- Outdoor parking and poor air filter maintenance were linked to higher levels of Bipolaris and Alternaria, respectively.
- Musty odors correlated with a 2.5-fold increase in Aspergillus levels, indicating a strong association with fungal abundance.

## Abstract

Airborne fungal exposure in confined indoor environments is a growing public health concern, however the microbial composition of air inside private vehicles remains underexplored. This study aimed to characterize culturable airborne fungi in vehicle cabins and evaluate their association with environmental and behavioral variables. Air samples (100 L) were collected from 69 vehicles using a standardized culture-based method. Simultaneously, a detailed survey was administered to vehicle owners to document usage patterns, maintenance habits, and odor perception. Results revealed a total culturable fungal load of 31,901 CFU/m3, with Cladosporium, Aspergillus, and Penicillium as the most frequently isolated genera. Statistical analysis showed that fungal abundance and community composition were significantly associated with vehicle usage factors such as air disturbance, parking environment, air filter maintenance, and perception of musty odors. Vehicles parked outdoors had significantly higher Bipolaris levels, while lack of regular filter replacement was strongly associated with elevated Alternaria abundance. The presence of musty or moldy odors correlated with a 2.5-fold increase in Aspergillus levels. Redundancy analysis confirmed that odor perception and parking behavior were the strongest predictors of fungal community structure, with specific genera displaying distinct ecological preferences across usage conditions. Usage patterns and maintenance habits significantly influence in-cabin fungal communities, with implications for respiratory health, particularly due to the presence of allergenic and opportunistic genera like Aspergillus, Alternaria, and Bipolaris. Regular air filter maintenance and attention to odor cues may help reduce fungal load and associated health risks.