Given the relationship between exposure and disease, removing these pests and their allergens is a logical tactic for preventing disease and reducing symptoms, but current methods need improved efficacy. Results from studies on avoiding allergens suggest cau- tious expectations about the ease with which long-term clinically relevant allergen reduc- tion can be accomplished. Also, public health practitioners should be aware that focusing on one aspect of asthma control will not necessarily result in an improvement in the pre- valence of asthma at the community level. A multifaceted approach to controlling aller- gic asthma consists of using controller medications, avoiding irritants (such as ozone and outdoor air.
