Bermuda each year, it is no wonder the Island is home to what is beleived to be the first centre for allergy sufferers and asthmatics in the western world.

Earlier this year, Ms Jennifer Brimmer opened the centre next to St. Paul's AME Centennial Hall on Court Street.

And already it has been flooded with requests for its products and/or services.

"About 20 percent of the community suffer from allergies,'' Ms Brimmer said.

"And we come in contact with so many people suffering as a result of their home environment.'' The Allergy and Asthma Relief Centre's main objective is therefore to decrease some of the suffering by providing products and advice, she said.

In addition to many other allergy and asthma-sensitive products, the centre sells an environmental cleaning system for the home or office called Thermax.

The vacuum, steam-cleaning system removes irritants such as dust and other particles from carpets and furniture.

"This is especially effective in bedrooms,'' Ms Brimmer said, "because that's where we are shedding cells constantly.'' The system could also be very useful in schools and offices, she added.

"The buildings here are very sick. The in-door environment can be more dangerous than outdoors.

"If employers looked at using the right cleaning equipment, they will soon realise that employees will be taking less sick leave and everyone will benefit all around.'' Ms Brimmer said the centre's 11 staff members also provide counselling sessions for its clients at their homes, offices or at the centre.

The centre also works closely with nurses who see asthmatic patients and those suffering from allergies on a regular basis.

Clients are also encouraged to bring their children to advice sessions so they can also understand what allergies and asthma is about.

"Our time is their time,'' Ms Brimmer said. "Hopefully, people will start now looking more closely at their health and taking more control of it.

"If they use the products properly and take advice from us, there is no reason why they cannot enjoy a healthy life.'' The centre is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. Voice mail is also available.

For further information call the centre at 292-9258. Those interested in the Thermax system can call on 292-4695 or 292-4719.

ALLERGY RELIEF -- Ms Jennifer Brimmer of the Allergy and Asthma Relief Centre displys some of the centre's equipment.