House Dust Mite Allergen Levels in A Singapore Hospital

House dust mite allergens constitute one of the most Important aller· gens In house dust. In this study, the levels of two common dust mite allergens, Der p I and Der f I, In a general hospital In Singapore were evaluated. Our results showed that these allergens were detected In 42/74 (or 57O/~ of the dust samples. Der p I was found to be the predominant allergen detected (p <0.001). The allergen levels were, however, low with only 1174 having a Der p I concentration above 2 PSI g.1 dust. None of the samples had Der f I concentrations above this level. Of the various niches studied (mattresses, pillows, sofas, carpets, blinds and floors), the blinds and floors had the lowest concentration of allergen (p <0.05). These low levels In the hospital c0mpared to homes were attributed to the vigorous cleaning schedule In the hospital, the use of plastic to encased mattresses and pUlows, vinyl covered sofas and vinyl lined floors. These prectices may be adopted in the home as a means to reduce mite allergen exposure.