Virus Control Aboard a Commuter Bus

Previously we performed unsteady numerical investigations of virus transport when particles are released aboard a commuter bus with 37 passengers from an infectious passenger sitting in the middle of the bus. The study aimed at understanding the risk of infection to other passengers from the release of viruses from a single source during the sedentary condition; 2.5-micron particles were used to simulate aerosolized viruses. The study assumed 1,267 particles/min were released from an infectious passenger. The numerical results indicated a high risk of infection for passengers sitting adjacent to and behind the infectious person when the bus was in transit and a high exposure rate for the passengers sitting in front of the infectious person when air exchange occurs at the bus stop. However, the estimated risk of infection was low for 30 minutes of exposure. The present investigation is focused on simulations and assessment of a new environmental control system where the virus could be controlled and captured locally, reducing the risk of infection to passengers sitting around the infectious person.