Allergen quantification in surface dust samples from German day care centers.

Area of Science:

• Environmental Health
• Allergology
• Occupational Health

Background:

• Indoor allergens, including dust mite (DM), cat (Fel d 1), and dog (Can f 1) allergens, are significant triggers for allergic rhinitis and asthma.
• Exposure to these allergens is not confined to private residences, extending to shared environments like day care centers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To quantify domestic mite, cat, and dog allergen levels in German day care centers.
• To assess whether detected allergen concentrations pose a significant risk to human health, specifically concerning sensitization and allergic symptoms.
• To identify room characteristics influencing allergen concentrations.

Main Methods:

• Dust samples were collected from 171 rooms across 20 day care centers in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, four times annually.
• Enzyme immunoassays were used to quantify domestic mite (DM), Fel d 1 (cat), and Can f 1 (dog) allergens.
• Mixed linear models analyzed the influence of room characteristics on allergen concentrations, considering values below the limit of detection.

Main Results:

• Allergens were ubiquitous, present in 99% (DM), 96% (Fel d 1), and 96% (Can f 1) of samples.
• Concentrations frequently exceeded thresholds for enhanced sensitization risk (DM: 13%, Fel d 1: 43%, Can f 1: 27%).
• Upholstered furniture, carpets, and floor sweeping were associated with higher allergen loads; renovations and regular vacuuming reduced DM levels.

Conclusions:

• Day care centers harbor significant levels of indoor allergens, frequently exceeding sensitization risk thresholds.
• Allergen concentrations are influenced by furnishings, cleaning practices, and room renovations.
• Implementing appropriate cleaning procedures and renovations can effectively reduce allergen burdens in day care environments.