A study by Hong Kong Baptist University has found average mite antigen levels of 5.37 micrograms per gram (mcg/g) in Hong Kong households, compared to the 2mcg/g mark that indicates an increased likelihood of asthma and dust mite allergy.1,2
Indoor pollution in Hong Kong
The majority of indoor respiratory allergies in Hong Kong can be attributed to the house dust mite antigen.1 Dust mites don’t bite. It is their faeces that cause allergic reactions.3 Common dust mite allergy symptoms include sneezing, wheezing and difficulty breathing.4
Hong Kong provides the ideal warm and humid environment for dust mites to breed. The relative lack of ventilation in new homes also means more dust and pollutants are being breathed in.
Common hiding spots for dust mites include mattresses, bed linen, carpets, curtains and soft toys.3
Ways to get rid of dust mites
- Maintain relative humidity at 50% or lower with a dehumidifier or air-conditioner 2
- Replace carpets with bare floors
- Vacuum often with a powerful vacuum cleaner
- Use dust-proof covers for mattress, quilt and pillow
- Wash sheets, quilt and pillow covers once a week in water at 60 degrees Celsius 5
- Remove dust with a damp rag
- Put soft toys from beds in a bag and place it in the freezer for 6 hours once or twice every fortnight to kill dust mites 5
While eradicating dust mites is impossible, following these guidelines can significantly lower the risk of dust mite allergies in your home.
Sources
- https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/health-beauty/article/1846680/scientists-raise-alarm-over-dust-mites-infesting-hong-kong. Viewed on 20 Oct 2018.
- http://www.worldallergy.org/education-and-programs/education/allergic-disease-resource-center/professionals/allergen-avoidance/. Viewed on 20 Oct 2018.
- https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/house-dust-mite. Viewed on 20 Oct 2018.
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dust-mites/symptoms-causes/syc-20352173. Viewed on 20 Oct 2018.
- http://hkasthma.org.hk/en/about-asthma/house-dust-mites. Viewed on 20 Oct 2018
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