Past research has been inconsistent in determining the relative effects of mouse droppings vs. cockroach exposure on asthma in children. 

According to a study being presented at the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI) Annual Scientific Meeting in Atlanta, recently, mice infestation is a stronger predictor of asthma-related emergency department visits in young children than exposure to cockroaches. 

The study examined 49 children under the age of 4, residing in the Bronx, New York. 

Both skin prick testing and blood tests were done to determine allergic response. 

Children who were found to be allergic to mice – based on either testing method – appeared to be more likely to have had at least one asthma-related emergency department visit in the prior 12 months compared to children not allergic to mice. Allergy to roach – based on either testing method – did not predict asthma-related emergency department visits in the prior 12 months. The study concluded that mice infestation is a strong predictor of mouse-specific allergy and risk for flares of asthma in young, inner-city children - stronger than roach infestation and roach allergy.