HVAC air conditioning filtration against Omicron in the Philippines

HVAC air conditioning filtration against Omicron in the Philippines

On November 24, 2021, the Variant Omicron COVID-19 (B.1.1.529) has been detected in South Africa. After the United States identified Omicron as a variant of concern on December 1, it quickly became the focal point for a new winter 2021 COVID-19 surge.

According to CDC statistics, the Omicron strain has been found in more than 15 US states and territories as of December 6, 2021. As with the Delta variant, Omicron is said to spread faster and more easily than the original COVID-19 strain. Early WHO statistics reveal that Omicron can spread up to twice as fast as the Delta variant.

As stated by the CDC, existing vaccinations remain effective in reducing the risk of hospitalization and serious illness from COVID-19. The CDC continues to promote vaccines as the best public health strategy to protect individuals against COVID-19 and reduce the risk of additional variants emerging.

However, with the outbreak of COVID-19 and the emergence of new strains, many people are wondering how to protect themselves while indoors. Although there is no one-size-fits-all solution, companies can implement a variety of virus mitigation policies and procedures.

Along with improving facility cleanliness, the CDC advises improving indoor air quality (IAQ) through ventilation and air purifiers. When people are indoors, they may be at high risk of catching COVID-19 through aerosol transfer. As the CDC reports, increasing the amount of clean air delivered indoors can help dilute virus particles in the air. As part of this multilevel viral attenuation strategy, improvements in IAQ can directly reduce the likelihood of COVID-19 transmission.

Several common approaches to improving air conditioning filtration include:

• Portable HEPA Air Purifier Systems
• It is advisable to use a higher rate MERV HVAC filter, MERV 8-13.
• Rebalancing and upgrading the HVAC system to increase overall building airflow and outdoor air intake.
• When weather and environmental conditions permit, open windows and doors to let in fresh outside air.
• Increase air circulation inside enclosed spaces by using self-contained, high-velocity fans.
• Integrate UVGI or UL/CARB certified electronic air purification and purification technologies into HVAC systems.

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