Simulation of vertical concentration gradient of influenza viruses in dust resuspended by walking.

Forces generated by walking can resuspend particles from the floor and create higher concentrations close to the floor and lower concentrations above it. These particles may include pathogens, such as the influenza virus, that were previously emitted into the air by an infected individual and that settled to the ground. Due to particle resuspension and turbulent transport, it is possible that shorter people are exposed to higher concentrations of particles, including certain pathogens, than are taller people. This work could be used in support of epidemiological investigations into the incidence of influenza as a function of a person’s height and to guide the design of more effective control strategies to reduce transmission of influenza.