Mold and human health

Harmful effects of molds Light micrograph of the hyphae and spores of the human pathogen Aspergillus fumigatus Mold health issues refer to the harmful health effects of molds (moulds in British English) and their mycotoxins. Molds are ubiquitous in the biosphere, and mold spores are a common component of household and workplace dust. The vast majority of molds are not hazardous to humans, and reaction to molds can vary between individuals, with relatively minor allergic reactions being the most common. The United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported in its June 2006 report 'Mold Prevention Strategies and Possible Health Effects in the Aftermath of Hurricanes and Major Floods' that "excessive exposure to mold-contaminated materials can cause adverse health effects in susceptible persons regardless of the type of mold or the extent of contamination." When mold spores are present in abnormally high quantities, they can present especially hazardous health risks to humans after prolonged exposure, including allergic reactions or poisoning by mycotoxins, or causing fungal infection (mycosis). Health effects People who are atopic (sensitive), already have aller