School indoor air quality and allergen exposure

Abstract

There is growing concern about the association of school indoor air quality (SIAQ) with asthma, rhinitis and rhinoconjunctivitis. The most commonly studied allergens are cat (Fel d 1), dog (Can f 1) and dust mite (Der f 1, Der p 1). Very few studies have analysed the significance of cockroach (Bla g 1 and 2) and mould allergens in schools and not much is known about SIAQ in island nations such as Malta. Schools with high allergen levels have an increased incidence of atopic disease resulting in a negative impact on the childrens’ health and performance. An acceptable SIAQ can be achieved by adopting published recommendations regarding the control and prevention of indoor allergens. The absence of a European SIAQ monitoring programme highlights the urgent need for more research in this field so as to issue the necessary evidence based recommendations specific to the individual countries.