It’s hard to imagine that roughly 3.4 million U.S. work days are lost due to allergies at a cost of $639 million for companies across America. Unfortunately, the fall season brings more than just pumpkin spice-flavored coffee to the mix as it is one of the most prevalent times for allergy sufferers to feel the effects of allergens such as Ragweed, mold spores, and pollen. It’s important to understand the dynamics of allergies and how to prevent them from disrupting your everyday life.
According to Hetal Amin, M.D., allergist-immunologist with Morris Hospital & Healthcare Centers, “Weed pollen, predominantly ragweed, is the most common trigger for allergic symptoms in the fall.” Ragweed can travel hundreds of miles due to strong winds, so even if you aren’t in areas that are susceptible to ragweed, you may actually come in contact with it at some point during the fall season. As experts in the commercial cleaning industry, we are constantly educating our clients on prevention tips and learning new and innovative ways to deter allergens from wreaking havoc on lives. We’ve gathered a few tips on how to stay healthy during this year’s fall allergy season.
Invest in a dehumidifier. The ideal range to keep the moisture out of your home is between 35% and 50%. The key is to lock out as much moisture as possible to stop the mold from growing.
Be sure to keep all house and car windows closed for an extended period of times to block out the spreading of airborne allergens, especially pollen coming in from fallen leaves.
Keeping surfaces clean in both your home and office is also important because mold disseminates quickly onto surfaces. You can use a multi-surface cleaning solution mixed with water to stop it from spreading.
Always use a HEPA air filter in your home and constantly conduct spot checks and replacements throughout the year. Dust mites and mold love to harvest in filters, so be sure to put a reminder on your phone for replacements.
Clean up your landscape. Due to the hurricanes this year, many states in the Southeast are struggling with decomposing debris which is becoming a bed of growing allergens, especially damp leaves. Take the time to rake, collect and discard all piles of debris and trim any decomposing vegetation throughout your yard.
If you have any other questions on allergy season or think you may need a cleaning specialist to come and assess your business for the fall allergy season, feel free to contact us as we’ll help you prepare for an allergy-free fall.
