Abundance of House Dust Mites, Dermatophagoides Spp., 1 Influenced by Environmental Conditions in Homes in Southern California 2

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Abstract
The abundance of house dust mites, Dermatophagoides spp., as influenced by environmental conditions in human dwellings, was investigated in southern California. Significant positive correlation was found between mite numbers and house dust load. A significantly reduced amount of dust and number of mites occurred on mattresses fully encased with plastic sheeting as compared to those unencased. Noncarpeted floors under beds yielded a significantly lower quantity of dust and mites than those carpeted. Amount of dust and mite abundance on floors under beds was noted to depend on frequency and extent of vacuuming by residents. Significantly fewer mite numbers occurred on unencased new mattresses than unencased older ones. No significant positive correlation was noted for dust load and mite numbers as related to house age, nor was significant positive correlation noted for mattress age as compared to house age.