It is the protein DER p1 in the fecal products and disintegrating body parts of minute dust mites that has a highly adverse effect on those who are allergic to it. Dust mites produce about 20 pellets per day, each measuring about 10 to 24 µm (micrometers - formerly microns) in size. To put that in perspective, the diameter of the human hair measures 80-100 µm. A gram of dust can hold 250,000 of these minute droppings. They are so tiny and light that they float easily into the air when disturbed by our daily activities. Inhaling these minute particles causes allergic reactions in those who are sensitive to protein DER p1.

The house dust mite is the number 1 allergen in the home. It affects 85% of people with asthma, allergic rhinitis and sinusitis and is also linked to eczema. Our modern homes are actually encouraging mites to colonize within our soft furnishings, curtains, fitted carpets and most of all, our beds. The humidity that is created with heating as well as sealed windows increases the mites' chances of survival. Every night an average bed could contain 2 million allergenic droppings. Allergens caused by the protein DER p1, contained within the droppings of dust mites, are known to create initial sensitivity and trigger asthma attacks. Such conditions have been shown to affect more than 1 in 5 people.

Allergens from the dust mite which cause asthmatic symptoms was first suggested in 1921 but analysis of dust did not happen until 1964 when a group led by Voohorst suggested that a mite may be responsible for the dust allergen. It was soon established that the dust mite droppings contain an allergen so they became a focus over the years for their involvement with respiratory ailments. The DER p1 produced by the dust mite is thought to be the most important allergen associated with asthma. More than 10% of the population are allergic to dust mite extracts.

Raycop UV-C Allergy Vacuum™ keeps allergens to an absolute minimum. Raycop is a state of the art hand held vacuum that utilizes the germicidal power of UV-C light to destroy dust mites, bacteria, viruses, E. Coli and H1N1. Raycop eradicates micro-organisms from mattresses, pillows, sofas and other fabrics surfaces.