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Mould spores are tiny structures produced by moulds for reproduction purposes. They are so small that we can hardly see some of them even when magnified 400 times. One cubic meter of outdoor air may contain
as many as 100,000 spores. The volume of air we inspire at rest per minute is estimated at 10 litres. Therefore, in an hour we inhale close to 600,000 spores. The air in working environments including mouldy buildings may contain up to 1,000,000,000 spores per cubic meter of air.
In indoor environments moulds grow on moist surfaces such as the drywall, wallpaper, carpet, baseboards and heating, ventilation and air-conditioning systems (HVACs). As these moulds grow, a stage is reached when they produce spores. The spores become airborne after drying out or disturbed.
Why are these spores so dangerous to our health?
About 20% of the population is allergic to mould spores. Apart from being allergenic, spores of some mould species such as Stachybotrys contain toxic compounds called mycotoxins. Symptoms associated with mould spores may include allergy, headache and fatigue, running nose, sneezing, coughing, pneumonia and Asthma among others. Young children, the elderly and people undergoing medical treatment are particularly susceptible to mould spores.
How can we control indoor mould spores?
It is extremely difficult to get rid of spores completely. We can, however, reduce their numbers by controlling mould growth in our houses or offices. Mould growth is associated with moisture problem as a result of flooding, leaks in roofs or plumbing and condensation in case of poor ventilation or inadequate insulation. The key to controlling mould growth is keeping our houses or offices dry by maintaining low relative humidity (below 70%) thus eliminating or slowing the growth of most mould species. Any water leakage should be repaired immediately and the water dried out within 48 hours. Constant monitoring for mould growth in the kitchen, bathrooms, window frames, carpets and baseboards is recommended. The earlier the mould is discovered the cheaper and easier it is to get rid of the problem.
What should you do if you notice mould growing in your house or office?
Do not panic! Seek professional advice. Not all moulds are dangerous to health, but no mould should be allowed to grow in our dwellings. Also the health effects of indoor moulds depend on the amount of mould one has been exposed to, length of time of exposure, the types of moulds present and individual’s resistance. Therefore, presence of mould does not necessarily mean the occupants have been exposed.
Which are the most dangerous moulds?
People have come to believe that black moulds are the most dangerous.
The truth is, colour does not determine whether a mould is of health concern or not. To know whether a mould is dangerous or not requires the mould to be identified by a qualified mycologist.
Unveiling the Truth About Indoor Mold and Its Health Implications
Understanding the facts about indoor mold is crucial for making informed decisions regarding its management and remediation. This article aims to demystify the subject of mold, shedding light on its growth, potential health risks, and effective control measures. By providing accurate information, we hope to guide homeowners, property managers, and businesses in addressing mold issues without succumbing to unnecessary fear or costly mistakes.What You Should Know About Mould Allergies And Other Related Illnesses
Mould (also spelt as mold) produces tiny reproductive structures called spores. Spores are released in enormous numbers and disseminated in the air so that they are found almost everywhere. Some mould species also produce by-products called mycotoxins which can also become airborne. Several mycotoxins are highly toxic or carcinogenic. One out of every five people is likely to react to normal spore concentration by developing "hay fever" or asthma. Prolonged or repeated exposure to high concentrations of mould spores can result to sensitization even to healthy individuals. Mould related illnesses include: