Cockroach allergen reduction in inner-city homes has been largely unsuccessful. In this study we assessed the efficacy of an intensive and targeted mitigation program to reduce Blattella germanica allergen 1 (Bla g 1) levels. Homes were randomly assigned to intervention or nonintervention treatments according to baseline trapping criteria (50-500 cockroaches per home). Following baseline trapping, vacuumed dust sampling, and spatial analysis of Bla g 1 distribution (from multiple swab samples), intervention homes were extensively cleaned, treated with insecticide baits, and occupant education was conducted. Monthly follow-up trapping and Bla g 1 distribution data were used to target subsequent bait placement and cleaning. Integrated management of cockroaches for 6 months resulted in 96% reduction in trapped cockroaches in the intervention homes. Integrated pest control and cleaning also resulted in significant reductions in mean Bla g 1 concentrations in the kitchen (93%), bedroom bed (85%), bedroom floor (84%) and family room floor and sofa (77%). No significant reduction in trapped cockroaches or mean Bla g 1 concentrations occurred in the nonintervention control homes in the first 6 months. Subsequently, these homes were treated with insecticide baits and both cockroaches and Bla g 1 declined significantly by month 12. These results show that allergen levels can be reduced below clinical thresholds in several areas of the home.
Species 1: Blattodea Blattellidae Blattella germanica (German cockroach)
Keywords: allergen
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