No...
...Referring to the filter unit as the particles trapped in them after a high reading are the danger. If the counter is going crazy, changing the filter only spreads the concentrated, accumulated poisons to the operator and his/her nearby environment. The counter itself should be relativity void of particles compared to the filter and purifier unit as these units (by design) trap and concentrate these materials in a very small area (filter AND UNIT).
When you change the filter or otherwise disturb these purifier units you are in the cross+hairs of toxic particles (of many types) the unit has gathered (therefore concentrating these poisons) during operation.
So if the counter shows a high reading you should take precautions to avoid ANY exposure resulting from handling the filter or purifier unit. ALWAYS use a mask and gloves, change clothes and shower as soon as the service is completed. Otherwise you are exposing yourself to the very things you are trying to avoid.
If a $50 air cleaner is worth more to you than a possible cancer for you or a family member you came into contact with after servicing these rigs, clean it up and use it again. If not, bag it and go for further testing before taking ANY chances.
Here's more on filters change procedures in general...
https://www.netc.com/bb/viewtopic.php?f ... 6883#p6882A very real threat to your health....