RESPIRATORY INFECTIONS AMONG CHILDREN IN MOISTURE DAMAGED SCHOOLS

摘要

The occurrence of common respiratory infections were studied with self-reported questionnaires in 32 Finnish schools and the association between respiratory infections and moisture damage in different types of school buildings was estimated. Both old and new buildings with wooden and concrete/brick frame were included. An association was found between occurrence of common colds and moisture damage in all school buildings. In addition, sinusitis, tonsillitis and bronchitis were more common in concrete/brick buildings than in buildings with wooden frame irrespective with moisture observations. Occurrence of respiratory infection was also strongly correlated with background factors such as age, female gender, smoking, atopy and moisture damage in home environment.