This week on Health Watch, we’ve been talking about clean air, asthma and allergies. We’ve talked about the outdoor danger of ozone pollution and how indoor air quality in the home can contribute to asthma. If your children are in day care and have allergies, you should pay attention to the day care environment, too.

Dr. Rebecca Gruchalla, chief of allergy at UT Southwestern Medical Center, suggests some things parents should look for at day care centers. In general, the more clean and sterile the environment, the better. Tile floors are less likely to harbor allergens than carpet is. Leaks or dampness could attract cockroaches and encourage mold growth. If there are mattresses for naptime, they should be encased in allergen-proof covers. Children should wash their hands and faces after playing outside to remove pollen, and an indoor air filter may also help keep air clean. 

Visit http://www.utsouthwestern.org/allergy to learn more about UT Southwestern’s clinical services in allergies.