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Moulds Could be
Harmful if Not Properly Managed
During the year, the Health
Unit responded to many inquires regarding
indoor mould concerns in schools and in
private residences. Moulds are microscopic
fungi that live on plant or animal matter.
There is evidence that 300,000 or more species
of these fungi exist in our environment. Most
produce spores and can be transported by air,
water or insects.
Moulds are found in virtually every
environment indoors and outdoors. Mould growth
is encouraged by warm and humid conditions.
Outdoors they can be found in damp shaded
areas where vegetation is decaying. Indoors,
they are usually found in basements, showers,
wet drywall or buildings with poor
ventilation. Some moulds are also found in
tobacco smoke.
Some people are sensitive to moulds. Exposure
can cause symptoms such as nasal congestion,
eye irritations, asthmatic reactions, fever,
shortness of breath and mental confusion.
Indoor air moulds can be reduced by reducing
humidity, leaks and condensation. Disinfecting
and removal of the moulds and the materials in
which moulds are growing is essential in the
control of moulds.
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Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit -
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