Pests, pets, and other biologicals are indoor air pollutants that frequently cause respiratory symptoms. Below is a list of common biological allergens and asthma triggers that you may find in your home.

• Body parts, droppings, and chemicals produced by dust mites. (Dust mites are microscopic organisms that live in the dust all around us.)
• Body parts, chemical secretions, and droppings of cockroaches.
• Protein in rat and mouse urine, as well as their hair, skin flakes and saliva.
• Cat saliva.
• Animal dander or minute scales from hair, feathers or skin from animals including your household pet.
• Pollens produced by plants.

Many of these biological indoor air pollutants can be reduced by regular cleaning. You may want to purchase a vacuum with a high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter. Dust mites can be limited by washing linens in hot (130 degrees F) water on a routine basis. Protect all outer openings of your home to prevent the entrance of pests. Do not leave food or garbage out. Contact a licensed pest control operator to eliminate any identified pests. Limit access of pets to portions of your home including bedrooms and carpeted areas. Minimize the number of plants in your home.

Links to other information:

EPA’s website on biological pollutants