Airborne Rodent Allergen Levels in Dutch Households: A Pilot Study.

Sara A Burt,Lidia I Parramon Dolcet,Inge M Wouters

doi:10.3390/ijerph16193736

Sara A Burt, Lidia I Parramon Dolcet + Show 1 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16193736

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Abstract

Little research has been conducted in Europe regarding indoor exposure to airborne rodent allergens. The aims of this study were to gain insight into the prevalence of rodent allergens in airborne dust in Dutch households, to assess whether there is a relationship between rodent sightings and detectable allergens, and to identify risk factors associated with the presence of rodent allergens. Airborne dust was collected from the living rooms of 80 households distributed around central Netherlands by passive sampling using electrostatic dust collectors (EDCs). Samples were analysed for mouse (Mus m 1) and rat (Rat n 1) allergens. Participants completed a questionnaire on household and building characteristics, household pets, cleaning habits and ventilation. Mouse allergen was more prevalent than rat allergen and mouse sightings within the past year more than doubled the odds of detectable mouse allergen. Proximity to green areas, ventilation through an open window and insulation under the living room floor were determinants for detectable mouse allergen. Conversely, proximity to surface water was protective. No significant association was found between asthma and detectable mouse allergen. The passive EDC sampling method was used successfully to detect mouse and rat allergens in homes. The presence of mouse allergen was associated with previous mouse sightings. Risk factors and protective factors associated with the presence and levels of mouse allergen were identified.

Highlights

Allergens of mice and rats in the home have been associated with asthma and asthma exacerbation, especially among sensitized children [1,2,3]
In a nationwide study conducted in 831 homes, mouse indoor allergen exposure was estimated by testing dust samples from furniture and the floor
Mouse allergen was found in almost half of 80 homes and rat allergen in just under 4%

Summary

Introduction

Allergens of mice and rats in the home have been associated with asthma and asthma exacerbation, especially among sensitized children [1,2,3]. In a nationwide study conducted in 831 homes, mouse indoor allergen exposure was estimated by testing dust samples from furniture and the floor. Eighty two per cent of homes had detectable levels of mouse allergen and a third of homes had levels high enough to increase the risk for occupants of developing allergies (1.6 μg/g mouse urinary protein) [5]. Cracks or holes in the walls, and evidence of mouse infestation appear to be the main risk factors for having detectable airborne mouse allergen in the house [8]. Other predictors associated with the detection of mouse allergen are the size of the home, pesticide use, having a private garden, frequent window opening, and the presence of pets in the home [6,9]

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