A US based study had found that children are more exposed to indoor allergens at their day care centers than anywhere else.
Allergens that are commonly found indoor include bacteria, molds, mildew, viruses, animal dander and saliva, dust and dust mites, cockroaches and pollens. These may cause allergic reactions like allergic rhinitis, hypersensitivity pneumonitis, asthma and various other diseases. Some of the symptoms experienced by people in presence of allergens are sneezing, watery eyes, coughing, shortness of breath, dizziness, lethargy etc.The research team which had looked into the conditions of 89 day care centers had found out at least seven allergens from dust mites, fungus, cats, dogs, cockroaches, and rats present in the day care centers that can affect the health of the children raised here.
The research team had found the maximum incidence of three forms of allergens from dogs, cats, and a fungal allergen called Alternaria. Pet allergens were found in day care facilities where there are no cats and dogs in the surroundings, making it possible that these allergens have come from children’s clothes, belonging to children who had such pets at home. The study had also found that non-carpeted surface collects less allergens than carpeted surfaces.
The study brings into focus that day care centers may be the places that affect the health of children and so more attention needs to be given to maintain a good hygienic and clean environment at the centers.
