Christmas trees pose risk to allergy sufferers

[Guest guest]

This had been discussed on the board a bit ago. At that time I

couldn't locate the article pertaining to moulds and Christmas

trees. This just came through, I thought it might answer some

questions that our members had.

KC

Christmas trees pose risk to allergy sufferers

Updated Tue. Dec. 12 2006 9:26 PM ET

CTV.ca - Canada

CTV.ca News Staff

http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20061212/christma

s_trees_061212/20061212?hub=TopStories

Researchers say those who suffer spring and summer allergies may get

a midwinter flare-up from Christmas trees.

" We found there was pollen and moulds on the tree. Some of it was

actively growing, some of it was stuck on there, " Jim of

the London Health Sciences Centre told CTV News on Tuesday.

The trees collect ragweed pollen, moulds and fungal spores from the

farms on which they are grown.

When the trees get moved or dry out, the spores and mould fly into

the air.

As a result, the researchers found up to 200 times the level of such

material in the air compared to a home with no Christmas tree.

Those who think an artificial tree solves the problem should think

again.

Tests found small amounts of fungus on those two because they

collected dust and mould when they are stored.

" I was kind of surprised, " said.

As a result, those who suffer from spring and summer allergies may

suffer yet again.

Dr. , an allergy specialist, had this advice: " I

think for people who are susceptible, they should wear long-sleeved

shirts with globes and maybe have a fan in the room to disperse the

pollen. "

The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America has the following

suggestions:

When brining a Christmas tree home, tie it to a roof rack, if

possible, so the airflow can remove some of the dust and mould.

Bounce the tree's trunk on the driveway or some other firm surface

outside.

Wipe down the trunk with a rag using a mild bleach solution (one

part bleach to 20 parts lukewarm water).

Submerge the trunk in a bucket of fresh water while letting the

tree's branches dry out a bit more.

Use a leaf-blower on the tree. Perform this operation outside while

wearing a dust mask.

" Or the best option is to get somebody else to decorate it for you,

and you just enjoy the Christmas tree! " laughed.

The good news is that once the tree is gone, the allergens disappear

too.

With a report from CTV's Avis Favaro and St. Philip