Environmental detection of Aspergillus fumigatus spores in a wildlife rescue centre, University of Turin.

Aspergillus fumigatus is a filamentous fungus capable of causing severe diseases in both humans and animals. One of the main routes of infection is the inhalation of conidia dispersed in aerosols. This study aimed to investigate and quantify the presence of A. fumigatus spores within the Centro Animali Non Convenzionali (CANC) of the University of Turin Using a portable sampler (Surface air system – SAS). In vitro antifungal sensitivity to widely used azole drugs such as voriconazole (VCZ), itraconazole (ITZ), posaconazole (PSZ) was assessed by agar immunodiffusion tests using commercially available reactive strips. This study represents the first report that investigates the environmental presence of Aspergillus fumigatus spores in a wildlife rescue centre. The concentrations detected were mostly within values normally found in the environment and considered not dangerous for healthy individuals. Only occasionally were higher concentrations observed, up to 1500 CFU/m³.The results are fairly reassuring regarding the environmental levels of A. fumigatus spores, indicating a "healthy" environment for both human operators and animal inhabitants.