According to the First

National Allergen Survey, some 44 million American homes

have bedding with dust mite allergen concentrations that

exceed two micrograms per gram of dust, a level that has

been associated with the development of allergies, and an

estimated 22 million American homes have dust mite

allergen concentrations that exceed 10 micrograms per

gram of dust - a level that may trigger asthma

symptoms in asthmatics.

"In recent years,

mounting evidence has suggested that dust mites and their

waste particles can trigger allergy and asthma symptoms

in dust-allergic individuals," said Linda Whiteley,

director of operations for Allergy Free, a leader in the

allergy-avoidance product market. "This study shows

us that Americans may not be doing all they can to

control their environments, which may be especially

important if someone who already suffers from allergies

or asthma lives in the house."

Dust mites, the microscopic

spiders found in house dust that thrive in warm, moist

environments, are one of the most common triggers of

allergy and asthma symptoms in the home - especially

in bedrooms where mattresses, bedding and carpet create

havens for them. Although invisible to the naked eye,

these tiny pests can create big irritations for

dust-allergy sufferers.

"One hundred thousand

dust mites may be present in only one gram of dust,"

said Whiteley. "Although a home may appear clean and

tidy, dust mites hide in carpet, mattresses, bed

coverings, upholstered furniture and window coverings,

and particulates can be spread throughout a home via the

air conditioner."

To combat dust mites in

bedrooms and other areas in the home, Whiteley suggests

the following:

* Wash bedding weekly in

water that is at least 130 degrees Fahrenheit or use

laundry detergent specifically engineered to remove dust

mites.

* Remove stuffed animals

and decorative pillows - unless they can be washed

- from the home as well as anything stored beneath

beds in bedrooms.

* Use a residential air

filter designed to remove allergens in the home.

* Encase mattresses in

covers - preferably ones that are permeable to air

and vapor, but not dust mites - taping the length of

the zipper. Putting pillows in encasings also will help

prevent mold from forming on it from perspiration as well

as keep dust mites out.

* Use window coverings made

of plastic or washable fabric for easy cleaning.

* Buy a vacuum cleaner with

a HEPA or ULPA filtration system or use a central vacuum

system to help reduce the amount of dust and allergens

stirred up by vacuuming. A person with allergies should

avoid vacuuming or wear a dust mask.

* Use a vent filtration kit

that reduces the number of allergens flowing through the

home.

steps to battle dust mites in their homes, allergy and

asthma sufferers may get some relief, Whiteley said.

For more information about

Allergy Free, call 1-800-ALLERGY or visit www.allergy-free.com .