I SYMPATHISE with Karima Hallett ('Asthma victims lose out in cuts', April 19).

I have been running York Allergy Support for several years and know of many asthmatic children. Some have an allergy to house dust mites. Research from Southampton hospital indicates that the house dust mite is the biggest allergenic trigger of asthma (higher than cats, dogs and pollens).

I know from personal experience the difficulties Ms Hallett faces.

There is some evidence to suggest that it is important to keep the home environment as dust-free as possible, but the catch is that often the condition is aggravated by disturbing the dust and the dust mites, when vacuuming, and making beds, etc.

In our home we have taken measures to limit the house dust mite, including: laminate flooring, allergy bedding and by damp dusting surfaces regularly.

I also try to move furniture when the children are out of the house.

Although these measures have not cured my child's asthma, they are vital to keep her asthma from escalating.

It appears from the article that Ms Hallett's asthma is also affected by exertion. It is a catch 22 situation.

I sincerely hope that the service is restored to Ms Hammett.

Jayne Dwyer,

York Allergy Support,

Campbell Avenue,

York.

Updated: 11:05 Friday, April 26, 2002