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Dust Mites and Mold are the Two Most Common Allergens Present
in Higher Humidity Climates
Dust mites live in upholstered
furniture, carpets, and mattresses. They feed on shed human
and animal skin scale. In order to stay hydrated, dust mites
must absorb their moisture needs from the air. If the relative
humidity is below 50 percent, dust mites dessicate (dry out).
Their appetites increase as the relative humidity climbs.
This is significant because their fecal material is the source
of the dominant dust mite allergen. Ninety percent of the
population that experience any allergy-based sensitivities
react to the dust mite allergen.
Once produced, the allergens
settle into fabrics and carpets. The dust mite allergen remains
potent for approximately 9 months. Individuals come into contact
with the allergen after some activity like vacuuming, dusting,
or making beds has "stirred-up" the area and caused
the allergen to become airborne. Due to its size and shape,
the allergen remains airborne for only a short period of time.
For this reason, air duct cleaning and air filtration devices
are ineffective methods of combating the dust mite allergen.
Vigorous vacuum cleaning and use of acaricides can offer some
short-term reduction in allergen levels. According to
studies conducted at Wright State University by Dr. Larry
Arlien, dust mite infestations will be eliminated if the relative
humidity is consistently maintained below 50 percent.
Molds are a fungi. They only
require high humidity (70 percent or higher) and an organic-based
material on which to feed. It is no surprise that they are
plentiful in humid climates. Cooler surfaces create a perfect
breeding area for mold because the relative humidity at their
surface will be near 100 percent. The surface may even be
wet with condensation.
The most common molds are the
species Alternaria, Epicoccum, Penicillium, and Cladosporium.
Individuals may react to the mold's spores or mycotoxins (a
toxin) released by the mold. Unlike the dust mite allergen,
mold spores remain airborne for significant periods of time
and are always present, to some degree, in outdoor air. Most
mold spores measure 5 to 10 microns in size and can be filtered
out of the air with the proper efficiency filter media.
Mold growth can be eliminated in the home through humidity
control that maintains reduced relative humidity levels and
prevents cooler surfaces from becoming damp.
Toll Free Phone
1-800-578-5939
Email
rick@earthtrade.com
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