Back to Breatheasyville Home- Helping Hoosiers with Asthma School

Classroom

Carpet - Dust Mites

Dust mites are tiny bugs too small to see with the naked eye that are found in fabrics, including carpeting. Allergies to dust mites are common among children. Also, studies show that exposure to dust mites can cause the development of new asthma.

Bunny - Pets

Animals with fur (e.g., dogs, cats, guinea pigs) have proteins in their dander (skin flakes), saliva, feces and urine. Many children are allergic to these proteins or allergens. Fish, turtles and snakes do not produce such allergens.

Computer - Dust

Dust collects on all indoor surfaces and contains asthma triggers, such as mold spores and dust mite allergens.

Water Damaged Ceiling Tiles - Mold

Water-damaged materials, such as ceiling tiles, encourage mold growth. Mold can trigger asthma symptoms for children allergic to mold.

Open Window - Pollen, Mold & Air Pollution

Many older school buildings have windows that open and close, which are used to introduce outdoor air into the building. Outdoor air pollution, pollen and mold spores can drift into the school through an open window, all of which can make asthma symptoms worse. Buildings located near high traffic areas need to be aware of traffic fumes, particularly diesel exhaust, and smog levels.

Blinds - Dust

Dust collects on all indoor surfaces. Dust contains asthma triggers, such as mold spores and dust mite allergens. Regularly wipe window blind surfaces with a damp, soapy cloth to remove dust.

Art Supplies - Strong Odors

Art supplies can give off fumes with strong odors that can irritate the lungs and cause or worsen asthma symptoms.

Trash Can - Pests

Pests, such as cockroaches, are attracted to food waste found in trash cans. Cockroaches produce powerful allergens that can cause asthma attacks in children allergic to cockroaches.

Air Freshener - Strong Odors

Spray and plug-in air fresheners use strong fragrances that can irritate the lungs of sensitive children. Do not use air fresheners or candles while children are present.

Plant - Mold

Plants can be a potential source of mold, if plants are over watered or allowed to sit in standing water. Mold can trigger asthma symptoms for children allergic to mold.

Air Vent - Dust & Mold

Many newer school buildings use a central heating and cooling system. Dust can accumulate on the air vent and in the air ducts, containing allergic asthma triggers, such as mold spores and dust mite allergens. Air flow is needed to help reduce moisture in the air. Excess moisture encourages mold growth.