Bacterial and Fungal Microbial Biomarkers in House Dust 83
allergen levels, whereas (as we have previously reported) sightings of pests are poorly
correlated with allergen levels for either cockroach or mice [27].
Next to sources of moisture, cleaning frequency was the most consistent variable
associated with the microbial environment in the home. Cleaning the bedroom at least
once a week was related to decreased levels of fungi, GPB, and GNB. Lower cleaning
frequency (vacuuming and dusting) has been associated with increased levels of β-d-
glucan and 3-OHFAs in other reports [22, 23, 16]. The potential for an individual to
alter his or her home microbial exposure, perhaps as a result of experiencing allergy
symptoms, should be accounted for ...