Epidemiological evidence suggests that certain viral infections not only trigger asthma-related symptoms but also contribute to allergic sensitisation and the development of asthma.

Allergic asthma is a chronic inflammatory lung disease characterised by airway inflammation (resulting in airway swelling), mucus hypersecretion and airway hyperreactivity in response to inhaled allergens, such as pollens, dust mite, moulds, fungal spores, etc., causing narrowing of the airways.Over the last few decades, there has been a dramatic increase in the prevalence of asthma and other allergic diseases in more economically developed and rapidly developing countries. As a result, they have become major public health problems and an enormous burden on health care resources. Severe asthma and systemic allergic reactions are potentially life-threatening conditions, which adversely affect the quality of life of millions of adults and children.

1. Asthma costs 1-2% of the total health budgets in direct costs, with large indirect costs for time lost from work and reduced productivity.

2. Survey data demonstrates that 95% of asthmatics have the dust mite allergen (Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus) within their mattress, to levels in excess of WHO guidelines.

3. Survey data demonstrates that approximately 17% of homes are contaminated with mould. This is significant as there is strong evidence linking asthma exacerbations to contamination of the indoor environment with moulds.

4. Since most people spend 90% of their time indoors, exposure to major allergens is significant.

5. Up to 35% of the population demonstrate evidence of reactivity to allergens.

6. 5-10% of the population show clinical features of one or more allergic disorders such as asthma, hay fever or eczema.

7. The Health Survey for England (2002) reported rates of doctor-diagnosed asthma of 20.5% in 0-15 year olds and 14.5% for all ages.

8. Repeated surveys have proven that incidence of asthma is steadily on the increase.

9. Epidemiological evidence suggests that certain viral infections may not only trigger asthma-related symptoms but also contribute to allergic sensitisation and the development of asthma.

10. Clinical and epidemiological observations strongly link viral infection with acute worsening of asthma in as many as 80% of cases in children and 60% in adults.

1. Vaccination: This is often given in early childhood and some evidence suggests that some vaccines might influence the development of allergy. However, no clinical trials have been done to assess the immune modulatory effect of vaccination in the primary prevention of allergy. There is also no feasible vaccination against viruses such as rhinovirus.

2. Antiviral Agents: There is currently no specific agent active against the human rhinovirus, which is the main cause for viral-triggered asthma exacerbations in adults and children. Several potential antiviral compounds are being evaluated, and some have reached clinical trial testing.

3. In the absence of the effective strategies to control viruses, a reduced exposure to allergens is also a preventative measure; however, how feasible is this?

4. Air quality solutions such as air purifiers and air sterilisers, which are becoming increasingly popular.

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