EN
Agricultural work is considered to be a major risk factor for occupational diseases. In particular, allergic reactions to cow dander cause numerous cases of airway disorders. We measured the concentration of allergens (e.g. Bos d2, Der p1) and endotoxin in the stables, living-rooms and mattresses of 46 farmers with a diagnosis of occupational asthma or allergic rhinitis caused by cow dander allergen. The concentration of cow dander allergen was highest in stables (median 20,400 µg/g) but also noticeable in dust samples from living-rooms (median 155 µg/g) and mattresses (median 195 µg/g). The sensitization threshold (20-50 µg/g) was exceeded in most cases. Thus, allergen transport from the stables to bed must be prevented by optimizing the hygiene of farmers and family members.