Question: Both of my children have severe allergies and one suffers from asthma. I keep a very tidy home and am disinfecting constantly. Is there anything more I can do to help alleviate some of their symptoms?

Answer: Asthma and allergies can be managed with medicine and avoidance of triggers such as dust mites, mold, cockroaches, tobacco smoke, pollen and pet dander. SC Johnson recommends these simple steps families can take to help combat the indoor triggers of these diseases:

• Control cockroaches. Cockroaches are an asthma trigger. Dead cockroaches and cockroach droppings contain allergens that can provoke asthma attacks. Raid® Roach Bates keeps killing bugs for up to four weeks. To prevent future roach problems, remember exposed food attracts them. Use Ziploc® bags and containers to protect leftover food and make sure garbage cans have lids.

• Banish dust mites. Dust mites are microscopic spiders usually found in large quantities in house dust. With an estimated 40,000 dust mites in an ounce of dust, clean up surface dust as often as possible using a product like Pledge® with Allergen Trappers™.

• Combat mold. When humidity is high, mold can be a problem in bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. Make sure these areas have good air circulation and are cleaned often. Keep a dehumidifier in the basement to reduce moisture from leaks or flooding. Run a fan for at least 20 minutes after showers or baths to vent warm, moist air.

• Attack the germs. Colds and flu can increase allergy attacks and worsen allergies. Help keep these at bay by using Oust® Surface Disinfectant & Air Sanitizer which kills 99.9 percent of germs and viruses on hard, non-porous surfaces.

• Protect linens from allergens. Sheets, pillows and fabric curtains can harbor dust mites, mold and other allergens. Use airtight, antibacterial mattress and pillow covers and wash all linens weekly in hot water.

Source: Press Release from S. C. Johnson