CDC Fact Sheet
Mold
Molds are the most common forms of fungi found on earth. They can grow on almost any material, as long as moisture and oxygen are available. Most molds reproduce through the formation of spores, tiny microscopic cells that are rsistant to drying and are released into the air. Airborne spores are found both indoors and outdoors. When spores land on a suitable moist surface, they begin to grow and release chemicals that digest and can eventually destroy the surface and underlying materials. Molds can also cause adverse health effects.
Health Effects of Mold Exposure
Molds can cause mild to severe health problems in sensitive individuals when a sufficient number of airborne spore are inhaled. Some individuals are far more sensitive than others. The most common health effects associated with mold exposure are allergic reations.
Symptoms may include:
Sneezing
Runny nose
Eye irritation
Cough
Congestion
Aggravation of asthma
Dermatitis (skin rash)
People at Greatest Risk
Infants, children, and the elderly are more susceptible to health problems attributable to molds. In addition, people with the following underlying health conditions may be more sensitive to molds:
Individuals with allergies or existing respiratory conditions including asthma, sinusitis, or other lung diseases.
Invdividuals with a weakened immune system (e.g., HIV patients).
Recent organ or bone marrow transplant patients.
Patients recovering from recent surgery and receiving chemotherapy or long-term steroid treatment.
How to Recognize Mold
Mold may be recognize by:
Sight - They usually appear as distinctly colored wooly mats (e.g., mildew is black and is one of the most common molds in a household).
Smell - They often produce a foul odor, such as a musty, earthy smell.
Preventing Mold Growth
The key to mold prevention is moisture control. Mold will not grow if moisture is absent.
Remove excess moisture with a wet-dry vacuum and dry out the building as quickly as possible (preferably within 24 to 48 hours).
Use fans to assist in the drying process.
Clean wet materials and surfaces with detergent and water.
If you choose to use bleach to clean up mold:
Never mix bleach with ammonia or other household cleaners. Mixing bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products will produce dangerous, toxic fumes.
Open windows and doors to provide fresh air.
Wear non-porous gloves and protective eye wear.
Small areas (such as a shower, or an area the size of a door) can often be cleaned by residents, but larger areas might need more professional help. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions when using bleach or any other cleaning product.
If you have an extensive amount of mold and you do not think you can manage the cleanup on your own, you may want to contact a professional who has experience in cleaning mold in buildings and homes.
I Found Mold Growing In My Home - How Do I Test The Mold?
If you can see or smell mold, a health risk may be present. You do not need to know the type of mold growing in your home, and the CDC does not recommend or perform routing sampling for molds. No matter what type of mold is present, you should remove it. Since the effect of mold on people can vary greatly, either because of the amount or type of mold, you cannot rely on sampling and culturing to know your health risk.