Why Is House Mold Bad?
Molds are microscopic organisms which like yeast and fungi digest other dead organisms in order to return them to the environment. In spite of their utility, molds present serious health hazards when they invade a house.
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Features
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Molds release innumerable amounts of tiny and invisible spores. In many cases, these become airborne and travel to other destinations, where they often become toxic.
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Identification
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Although there are several types of common indoor molds, the spores of Stachybotrys or black mold, pose the greatest health hazards as they often contain compounds with toxins known as mycotoxins.
Warning
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Molds are capable of producing allergic reactions, such as eye irritation, sore throat, coughing, and tightness in the chest. According to a joint U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report, two mold-produced toxins are now classified as human carcinogens.
Most Vulnerable
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According to the DHHS report, people with immune suppression, asthma or other respiratory problems are the most susceptible to mold infections.
Considerations
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Molds love warmth and moisture. Any area that becomes damp or wet is capable of incubating toxin-producing mold within 24 to 48 hours under the right conditions.
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