Summary of Key Points posted on Dec 5, 2022
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Molds are fungi, such as mildew, yeasts, and mushrooms, that are present everywhere, both indoors and outdoors. No one knows for sure how many species of fungi exist, but they are in the thousands. Molds commonly found in homes include Penicillium, Cladosporium, Aspergillus, Alternaria, Stachybotrys and many others. Homes built close to bodies of water like ponds, lakes or rivers, and homes built in wooded areas are likely to have a large variety of molds growing outdoors. Outdoor molds are carried indoors by wind, the fur of pets, or clothing. |
How and where does mold grow? posted on Aug 26, 2021
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Mold can grow almost anywhere there is water, high humidity, or damp conditions. Molds are often found in homes and schools that have been flooded or have had water leaks (such as from roofs, windows, or pipes. Mold grows faster in dark spaces with warm temperatures, high humidity, and poor airflow.1 Mold can “feed’ on paper, fabric, cellulose, wallpaper glue, sheetrock, wood, soap scum, leather, upholstery, and many other surfaces. Molds reproduce by making small spores that can enter the air and settle on wet surfaces and grow to the visible forms of mold commonly seen in homes and schools. As fungi grow, they can produce chemicals called “volatile organic compounds” that cause the musty, sour, moldy smell.1 Under some circumstances, some fungi can produce chemicals (termed mycotoxins). As climate change leads to higher temperatures, increased sea levels, and increases in severe storms and flooding, there can be more instances of unwanted water leaking into homes. This creates opportunities for mold growth. |
Are damp indoor spaces a concern for health? posted on Aug 26, 2021
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Damp indoor spaces alone may produce air contaminants and odors which may cause irritation of the eyes, nose, throat and skin, asthma or asthma-like symptoms.13 Some people may experience general discomfort such as headaches, fatigue, and problems concentrating.5,11 There is increasing evidence to suggest that indoor dampness is associated with people developing asthma and causing symptoms in those who have asthma.15 Chemicals (such as those released) from deteriorating building materials), dust mites and pests growing in a wet and warm environment, may also play a role in worsening asthma and allergies.11,12 |
How are children exposed to mold? posted on Aug 26, 2021
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Children can be exposed to molds in the home and at school or preschool. At home, mold exposure is commonly found in bathrooms, but may be in the living area, meal areas or basement. In schools, bathrooms, shower rooms, gyms and science labs are environments suitable for mold growth. Mold exposure can also occur in any area where water from a leak comes in contact with paper, fabric, rugs, wallpaper glue, sheetrock, wood, and other surfaces. If disturbed, mold can release spores (usually not visible) that get inhaled. You can get mold on your skin or swallow mold if you eat spoiled food like moldy bread or sauces. Most people do not develop symptoms from such exposures. Those whose immune systems are already severely weakened may experience health problems |
What are health problems related to mold exposure? posted on Aug 26, 2021
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Should I see a doctor if my child has been exposed to mold? posted on Aug 26, 2021
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If you think that your children have symptoms related to mold exposure in your home or school, they should see a doctor. If you suspect the exposure is from school, you should also notify the school nurse or administrators. Current evidence indicates that allergies are most often associated with molds, but could also be related to other exposures, such as cockroaches, dust, or other agents in the indoor environment. Many symptoms associated with mold exposure are also caused by other illnesses. The amount of mold exposure (small spot in bathtub versus large area of extensive mold growth due to flooding) is also a factor in seeking medical attention. We do not endorse or recommend testing of the blood or urine for mycotoxins. |
How can you reduce dampness and mold in your home or school? posted on Aug 26, 2021
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The best way to reduce mold exposure in your home is to remove water and moisture sources. Fix leaks, dry damp areas, and lower indoor air humidity (e.g., use a dehumidifier in basements; open a window while taking a shower in bathrooms with no exhaust fan or vent). The best way to clean mold from small area surfaces (less than 3 ft by 3 ft) such as shower walls is to use detergent and water. Additional information about mold and mold removal can be found at the EPA Guide to Mold and The EPA web site Mold Cleanup in Your Home. For larger areas, it is best to contact a professional mold remediation. These steps will limit mold growth:
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Should I have my home/school tested for mold? posted on Aug 26, 2021
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If you find areas that are damp, or smell musty, you do not have to do mold testing. Simply identify and correct sources of unwanted water leaks and clean up the moldy areas. Mold testing is expensive, time-consuming, and the results are not always related to health risk. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention does not recommend routine sampling for molds. If air sampling for molds has already occurred, you can interpret the results. It is common to find mold spores indoors since most come in from the outside. Usually, indoor measurements are compared to outside. If the molds measured inside are much higher than those outside, it suggests that there is a location for mold growth inside, usually indicating that there is an area of water leakage that needs fixing. No relationship exists between the level of mold spores and specific health problems. |
Learn more about mold posted on Aug 26, 2021
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