Chapter 8 Current Status of House Dust Mites in Japan and Prospects for Control Agents

摘要

Mite infestations in school and home environments in Japan were investigated during 2005-2006. The mite numbers in summer exceeded the thresholds set by Japanese ministries (Ministry of Education, Sports, Culture, Science and Technology and the Ministry of Health and Welfare). Dermatophagoides spp. were dominant in schools and residences with more than 80% average presence. The acaricidal efficacy of several compounds was evaluated. Phenyl salicylate and benzyl benzoate indicated acaricidal efficacy by continuous contact. Etoxazole suppressed hatchability of the D. farinae eggs and exerted growth-regulatory effects. Amidofiumet was most effective against D. farinae. Amidofiumet treatment combined with vacuuming once a week caused a drastic reduction of live mites within 8 days. However, the reduction of mite allergen was not obvious. Thus, more frequent vacuuming might be required to reduce the allergen load.