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In an outdoor setting, mold plays a vital part
in the decomposition of waste and dead matter, however in an
indoor environment, molds produce allergens (substances that
can cause allergic reactions), irritants, and in some cases,
potentially toxic substances (mycotoxins). Allergic responses
include hay fever-type symptoms, such as sneezing, runny nose,
red eyes, and skin rash (dermatitis). Toxic mold types such
as Stachybotrys, cladosporium, aspergillus, and black mold are
the most dangerous. They cause allergies and sicknesses that
can be life-threatening.
To reproduce, molds release tiny spores into the air, which
float around until they land on moist surfaces. Controlling
moisture levels can prevent indoor mold growth. If there is
mold growth in your home or business, it is highly recommended
that the mold be cleaned up and that the water problem be fixed.
If you clean up the mold, but don't fix the water problem, most
likely the mold problem will return. Molds gradually destroy
the things they grow on.
It is impossible to completely get rid of mold and mold spores
indoors; mold spores can always be found in dust and floating
through the air. The mold spores can’t grow if moisture
is not present.
For more information on mold, visit: http://www.epa.gov/mold/moldguide.html |
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