- Author:
Kyoung Yong JEONG
1
;
In Yong LEE
;
Jongweon LEE
;
Han Il REE
;
Chein Soo HONG
;
Tai Soon YONG
Author Information
- Publication Type:Original Article ; Comparative Study ; Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
- Keywords: Blattella germanica; Dermatophagoides farinae; Periplaneta americana; Periplaneta fuliginosa; Periplaneta japonica; Tyrophagus putrescentiae; aeroallergens; allergy prevention; cockroaches; house dust mites
- MeSH: Tick Control/*methods; *Pyroglyphidae; Population Density; *Periplaneta; Korea; Insect Control/*methods; Health Education/*standards; Environment; Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus; Dermatophagoides farinae; *Blattellidae; Animals; Allergens/analysis
- From:The Korean Journal of Parasitology 2006;44(1):73-79
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
- Abstract: We evaluated the efficacy of health education in reducing indoor arthropod allergens in Seoul. The mite control measures comprised the use of mite-proof mattress and pillow coverings, regular washing of potentially infested materials, maintenance of a low humidity, removal of carpets, and frequent vacuum cleaning. Cockroach control measures included trapping, application of insecticides, and protecting food. Of 201 homes enrolled in October 1999, 63 volunteers were included in a 2-year follow-up survey between April 2000 and January 2002. Before intervention, the density of mites/g of dust varied greatly; 27.1/g in children's bedding, 20/g in adult bedding, 7.2/g on the floors of children's bedrooms, 6.8/g in sofas, 5.9/g on the floors of adult's bedrooms, 3.9/g on living room floors, 3.7/g in carpets, and 1.9 mites/g on kitchen floors. The predominant mite species and house percentages infested were; Dermatophagoides farinae 93%, D. pteronyssinus 9%, and Tyrophagus putrescentiae 8%. Comparing 1999 and 2001 infestations, before and after 25 mo of education, mite abundance was reduced by 98%, from 23.7 to 0.57 mites/g of dust. In 1999, cockroaches were detected in 62% homes: 36% Blattella germanica and 35% Periplaneta spp., including 9% double infestations of B. germanica and P. americana. Following intervention, cockroach infestation rates decreased to 22% of houses in 2000 and 23% in 2001. We conclude that continuous and repetitive health education resulted in the effective control of domestic arthropods.