Efficiency of Commercial Air Filters Against Marek's Disease Virus

In a series of 10 replicate trials with susceptible chickens as indicators of the presence of virus in the air, filter B(1) (Dri Pak, American Air Filter Co.), which has a dust spot rating of 93 to 97%, and filter C (Astrocel), with a dioctyl phathalate aerosol rating of over 99%, completely removed Marek's disease virus (MDV) from highly contaminated air. However, air passed through filter B(2) (Duracel), with a dust spot rating of 34 to 45%, remained infectious. Thus, an air filter with a dust spot rating of over 93% will effectively remove MDV from the air. The smallest infectious particles in the air are estimated to be greater than 0.3 mum in diameter.