Shipments from China, of furniture , clothing and shoes, are now being linked to severe skin rashes in many people. The chemical is called Dimethylfumate, (DMF), and it is used to prevent the growth of mold during shipping. Some people are very allergic to it. Over 1,000 cases have already been reported in Europe and many in Canada. Most US doctors aren't yet aware of it and don't realize that many cases of severe rashes may be caused by it.

The chemical is put into little packets or sachets that are then put in with furniture, clothing and shoes to prevent mold during shipping. It contaminates the furniture and clothing. One US doctor had a patient with a severe foot allergy. They discovered that it came from her contaminated shoes. When the shoes were disposed of, the rash disappeared.

Many countries in Europe have already banned its use. A few states are thinking about doing it. If you sit on your sofa and start itching in the back of your legs, that is the first sign of it.

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