Mold and Moisture
Review of Signs and Symptoms
 People with allergies have hyperactive immune systems
that think harmless things, such as pet dander, are
dangerous. Their bodies react to try to fight off the danger.
 Allergies -itchy, stuffy nose, red eyes, coughing, wheezing,
shortness of breath, rash
 Asthma is a disease that causes inflammation and narrows
the airways, making it difficult to breathe
 Asthma- coughing , wheezing, chest tightness, shortness of
breath
What is mold?
 Mold is tiny spores that break down dead matter
 Mold needs moisture and a warm temperature to grow
Why is mold a problem indoors?
 Molds produce allergens or toxic substances that can
harm humans
 Molds can induce asthma attacks
 10% of the population is allergic to mold
Where should I look to find mold?
 Bathrooms
 Laundry rooms
 Under kitchen sinks
 Basements
 Air ducts
How do I know if I have mold?
 Mold often looks like black spots and is commonly
found in bathrooms due to the high humidity
 Symptoms of a reaction are hay-fever like symptoms
(sneezing, coughing, respiratory symptoms)
 Mold can have a musty smell
Review Question 1
 Which of these is not a common symptom of mold




allergies?
A) coughing
B)sneezing
C) vomiting
D) runny nose
How do I prevent mold inside?
 Act fast-if wet areas are dried within 24-48 hours most




of the time mold will not grow
Keep indoor humidity low-use humidifiers if
necessary, use vents in bathrooms
Vent appliances such as dryers, stoves, or heaters
Avoid having carpet in bathrooms, kitchens, or
basements
Take wet items outside if possible-direct sunlight can
prevent mold growth
Review Question 2
 Which of these will help prevent mold growth?
Choose all that apply.
 A) Make sure wet surfaces are dried within 24-48
hours
 B)Vent dryers into the attic
 C) Avoid carpets in bathrooms
 D) Take wet items outside to dry in sunlight
How do I prevent issues outside
that could cause mold?
 Clean out gutters regularly
 Make sure ground slopes away from house
How do I fix mold in my house?
 Make sure to clean up mold AND fix the problem,




otherwise the mold will come back
Scrub mold with detergent and water
Do not cover up mold with paint—it will still be there
underneath the paint unless you clean it up
Fix any leaks you may find
Make sure to let areas dry completely after cleaning
Review Question 3
 True or False
 A mixture of ammonia and bleach should be used to
clean up mold.
How do I protect myself when
cleaning up mold?
 Wear N95 mask
 Wear gloves
 Wear goggles
 Make children leave the house while cleaning
Review Question 4
 Which of these is not necessary to use when cleaning
up mold?
 A)Hazmat suit
 B) N95 mask
 C)gloves
 D)goggles
Why is it so important?
 Mold can attract cockroaches, rodents, or dust mites
 Exposure to these pests can lead to more respiratory
issues, further complicating the problem
References
 Community environmental health resource center.
(2010). Mold and moisture. Retrieved from
http://www.afhh.org/hps/hps_cehrc_mold&moisture_
materials.pdf
 Environmental health and safety online. (2011). A brief
guide to mold, moisture, and your home. Retrieved
from http://www.ehso.com/indoorairmold.php
 Minnesota department of health. (2010). Moisture
and mold in my home. Retrieved from
http://www.energy.wsu.edu/Documents/mold_moistu
re.pdf
References
 United States Department of Housing and
Development. (2010). About mold and moisture.
Retrieved from
http://www.hud.gov/offices/lead/healthyhomes/mold
.cfm
 United States EPA. (2010). A brief guide to mold,
moisture, and your home. Retrieved from
http://www.epa.gov/iedmold1/preventionandcontrol.h
tml
Quiz Answers
 1. C
 2. A,C,D
 3. False
 4. A