What is a dust mite allergen?
Dust mites are microscopic organisms that can live and thrive throughout homes and schools. The mites and their waste products thrive in the following: • bedding • upholstered furniture • carpets Dust mites thrive in warm, humid conditions and feed on the shed scales of human skin. The waste products of the dust mite are what produce allergic reactions and asthma. The best way to prevent dust mites is to limit your child’s exposure. Be sure to pay special attention to the bedroom, especially the mattress and pillows. Ways to decrease dust mite exposure include the following: • beds Every bed in your house should have wooden or metal frames. Do not allow your child to sleep on a couch, sofa, or hide-a-bed. If your child has asthma and sleeps in a bunk bed, he/she should sleep in the top bunk. • mattress/box spring Place all mattresses and box springs in a zippered, dust-proof cover and tape over the zippers with electrical or duct tape. • pillows Encase pillows in zippered, dust-proof c
