"NORDPET" - Pets indoors - A risk factor for or protection against sensitisation/allergy - A Nordic interdisciplinary review of the scientific literature concerning the relationship between the exposure to pets at home, sensitisation and the development of allergy

Ten researchers from the Nordic countries have reviewed the literature on e arly exposure in childhood, to pets and the risk of sensitisation/allergy. A search of the literature resulted in identification of about 1200 article s, of which 89 were selected for further examination. The group concluded t hat all exposure to pets involves a risk of sensitisation. Exposure in infa ncy involves an increased risk (normally RR=1-1,5) of sensitisation and to a lesser degree of the development of symptoms. The group also concluded th at pot allergens are present "everywhere", as a result of people bringing a llergens in their clothing, etc. The group concluded as a recommendation, t hat families with atopic individuals should wait until the child is at leas t two years old before getting a pet.