Public Health and Epidemiological Implications of Ionized Air: Negative Air Ions and Their Role in Microbial Reduction - Evidence from the Ravne Tunnel Complex in Bosnia-Herzegovina

This study investigates the public health and epidemiological potential of the Ravne Tunnel Complex in Bosnia-Herzegovina, a unique subterranean environment exhibiting some of the highest recorded concentrations of negative air ions (NAIs) globally, peaking at 340,000 ions/cm³. Through the integration of empirical ion measurements, visitor health testimonials, and peer-reviewed biomedical literature, the study evaluates the microbial suppression and respiratory benefits associated with prolonged exposure to highly ionized air. A Monte Carlo simulation comparing influenza infection risks across hospitals, urban apartments, rural homes, and the Ravne tunnels demonstrates that the risk in Ravne is approximately 90 to 100 times lower than in conventional settings. Archaeological and environmental observations further support the hypothesis that the tunnels may have been intentionally constructed or modified to serve as health-supportive spaces. These findings advocate for a reevaluation of ionized environments as non-pharmaceutical strategies for epidemic preparedness and public health enhancement.