Mold FAQ
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Mold FAQ |
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Other Resources Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
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Frequently Asked Questions About MoldWHAT IS MOLD AND WHERE IS IT FOUND? Molds are microscopic fungi (related to mushrooms and mildew) that live on plant or animal matter. Most are filamentous organisms and the production of spores is characteristic of fungi in general. These spores can be air-, water-, or insect-borne. Mold can be found everywhere - inside and out. Mold is most likely to grow where there is water or dampness. Mold frequently grows in basements, bathrooms and on windowsills. HOW CAN MOLD AFFECT YOUR HEALTH? Most types of mold are not hazardous to healthy individuals. Too much exposure to mold may worsen conditions such as asthma, hay fever or other allergies. The most common symptoms of overexposure are cough, congestion, runny nose, eye irritation and aggravation of asthma. Depending upon a person's individual vulnerability, more serious effects such as fevers and breathing problems could occur but are unusual. If you are sick, see a doctor. HOW DOES MOLD GROW? All molds need water to grow. Mold can grow wherever there is water damage, high humidity or dampness. They are usually confined to the area near the source of the water. Removing the source of moisture through repairs or dehumidification is critical to preventing mold growth. Some simple modifications or changes in daily activities can reduce the moisture level in the home. WHAT IS STACHYBOTRYS CHARTARUM? Stachybotrys chartarum (AKA: Stachybotrys Atra) is a type of mold that has been associated with (but not proven to cause) health effects in people. It is a greenish-black mold that can grow only on materials with a high cellulose content (drywall, dropped ceiling tiles, wood, cardboard boxes, newspaper) that become chronically moist or water damaged due to excessive humidity, water leaks, condensation or flooding. It does NOT grow on concrete block or sandstone walls or on ceramic tiles. WHAT SHOULD I DO IF MOLD IS PRESENT IN MY HOME OR APARTMENT? Most experts agree the best way to treat mold is to invest in correcting the condition causing the mold and cleaning/repairing the effected area, instead of spending money testing for it. Testing is expensive, and there is no established limit for mold exposure. So get rid of it instead of finding out more about it. HOW SHOULD MOLD BE CLEANED? Mold should be cleaned as soon as it appears. Persons cleaning mold should be free of symptoms and allergies. Mold can be cleaned with a detergent solution, then with a mixture of bleach and water (1/4 cup bleach per gallon of water) let area dry. WHERE CAN I FIND MORE INFORMATION? We recommend these websites: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention http://www.cdc.gov/nceh/airpollution/mold/default.htm Environmental Protection Agency |
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