Russian allergist warns of hidden health risks from car air conditioners

ANBAR, Iraq — MOSCOW — A Russian allergy and immunology specialist has warned that car air conditioning systems can pose serious health risks if not properly maintained, the newspaper Izvestia reported. Yelena Maskayeva said contaminated filters, humid evaporators and cold air ducts require regular cleaning, and that any smell of moisture, vinegar or mold is a sign the system should be checked immediately. Maskayeva explained that when condensation combines with dust, leaf debris, pollen and dirt, it becomes the source of the odor and allows the system to spread toxic substances into the passenger cabin. According to documents from the European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, mold fungi of the Cladosporium, Alternaria, Aspergillus and Penicillium species have been detected in such filters and evaporators. The specialist also noted that dust mite residues can accumulate in seat fabrics and reach the respiratory tract through airflow. She added that filters that are old, faulty or of low quality can increase the risk by spreading allergens such as pollen throughout the vehicle.