1) Potential health effects and symptoms associated with mold exposures include allergic reactions, asthma, and other respiratory problems.
2) There is no practical way to eliminate mold and mold spores in the indoor environment; the way to control indoor mold growth is to control moisture.
3) If mold is a problem in your home or building, you must clean up the mold and eliminate sources of moisture.
4) The source of the moisture problem or leak must be repaired in order to prevent mold growth.
5) Indoor humidity must be reduced to decrease mold growth by: adequately venting bathrooms, dryers, and other moisture-generating sources to the outside; using air conditioners and de-humidifiers; increasing ventilation; and using exhaust fans whenever cooking, dish washing, and cleaning.
6) Clean and dry any damp or wet building materials and furnishings within 24-48 hours in order to prevent mold growth.
7) Clean mold off of hard surfaces with water and detergent and dry completely.
8) Prevent condensation: reduce the potential for condensation on cold surfaces (e.g., windows, piping, exterior walls, roof, or floors) by adding insulation.
9) In areas where there is a perpetual moisture problem, use proper sealants on building material, and do not install carpeting or other materials that will absorb moisture.
10) Mold can be found almost anywhere, and mold can grow on virtually any substance, providing moisture is present. There are molds that can grow on wood, paper, carpet, and foods.
Understanding Mold
Mold grows throughout the natural as well as the built environment. Tiny particles of mold are present in both indoor and outdoor air. Mold produces microscopic cells called "spores", which are extremely tiny and spread easily through the air. This is how they reproduce. Mold spores are continually present throughout the indoor and outdoor air. When mold spores land on a damp spot indoors, they may begin growing and digesting whatever they are growing on in order to survive.
The most common symptoms of mold exposure are runny nose, eye irritation, cough, congestion, and aggravation of asthma. Individuals with persistent health problems that appear to be related to mold or other types of air quality contaminant exposure should see their physicians for a referral to professionals who are trained in occupational/environmental medicine or related specialties, and who are knowledgeable about these types of exposures. Decisions about removing individuals from an affected area must be based on the results of such medical evaluation. Since mold is naturally present in outdoor environments and we share the same air between the indoors and outdoors, it is impossible to eliminate all mold and their spores from the indoor environment.
Downloadable resources in pdf format:
MDCH-Mold Facts
MDCH-Mold In Your Home
CDC-Mold Facts
CDC-Mold FAQs
EPA-Radon-Recommendations
EPA-Radon-Citizens Guide
EPA-Radon-Consumers Guide
WISCONSIN-Mold Guide
