Mold

Molds are fungi and grow throughout the natural and built environment. Mold only needs a few simple things to grow and multiply:

  • Moisture
  • Nutrients
  • Suitable place to grow

Of these, controlling excess moisture is the key to preventing and stopping indoor mold growth. Mold should not be permitted to grow and multiply indoors. When this happens, health problems can occur and building materials, goods and furnishings may be damaged.

The most common health problems caused by indoor mold are allergy symptoms. Although other and more serious problems can occur, people exposed to mold commonly report problems such as:

  • nasal and sinus congestion
  • cough
  • wheeze/breathing difficulties
  • sore throat
  • skin and eye irritation
  • upper respiratory infections (including sinus)

The following types of people may be affected more severely and sooner than others:

  • infants and children
  • elderly people
  • individuals with respiratory conditions or sensitivities such as allergies and asthma
  • persons having weakened immune systems (for example, people with HIV infection, chemotherapy patients, organ transplant recipients)

Resources