Dust Mites

• Two most common house dust mites:
- American dust mite (Dermatophagoides farinae)
- European dust mite (Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus)

• Very small, invisible to the unaided eye.

• Live for approximately 3-4 months.

• Cause of asthma and allergy
- Approximately 85% of asthmatics are allergic to dust mite allergens

• Mites prefer warm, moist areas (mattresses, pillows, carpeting and upholstery)