mold article from health dept. washington state

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Saturday, April 27, 2002 10:49 AM

Subject: mold article from health dept. washington state

Stachybotrys chartarum

February 1998

Fact Sheet

Environmental Health Programs

Office of Environmental Health & Safety

Fungi are a class of organism that includes yeasts, molds, mildews,

and mushrooms. Fungi, other than mushrooms, live as single cells or

as threadlike structures known as hyphae. Fungi reproduce through

the production of spores. Spores can enter the air (be

aerosolized); therefore, humans can come in contact with spores

through skin and respiratory exposure. Fungi can produce secondary

metabolites which include antibiotics (penicillin) and mycotoxins.

These toxins may adversely impact human health. Some other

metabolites are volatile organic compounds that cause musty, moldy

smells. Fungi require water to grow and can tolerate a wide range

of temperatures.

Stachybotrys chartarum

Stachybotrys chartarum is a black slimy mold that is common

outdoors, but can also grow indoors if requirements are met. (Note:

not all black molds are Stachybotrys chartarum.) It can grow on

paper, sheet rock, and other high cellulose materials. Spores of

wet mold do not easily enter the air. However, dry mold-

contaminated material that is disturbed allows spores to be

aerosolized resulting in the possibility of human exposure.

Health Effects

Stachybotrys chartarum may cause health problems from volatile gases

or toxicity from inhalation or skin contact with toxin-containing

spores. Toxic effects at relatively low doses include rashes, mild

neurotoxic effects such as headache, nausea, muscle aches and pains,

and fatigue. The immune system may also be affected resulting in a

decreased resistance to infections. Health problems related to long-

term (chronic) exposure to toxins have not been studied.

Sources

Stachybotrys chartarum requires large amounts of water to grow

indoors. Mold may be found in areas that have been flooded, where

roofs or walls leak, or where plumbing leaks create a wet

environment. Often such wet areas are hidden and mold contamination

may not be readily visible, yet can be extensive. Most homes have

areas where warm moist air comes in contact with a cooler outside

wall or window allowing condensation to form. This is also an area

where mold may form. Growth is often visible and less extensive.

Remediation

It is important to determine the extent of the contamination. If

the area is small and well defined, clean-up can be done by the

homeowner. If the problem is extensive, (e.g., between the walls,

under the floor) a professional will be required. If in doubt,

consult a specialist.

Control of Stachybotrys chartarum requires control of moisture.

Roof, wall, and plumbing leaks must be repaired and the area

thoroughly dried. Contaminated material must be cleaned or

removed. Mold can be killed by treating with ¼ cup bleach in one

quart of water. After rinsing, the area can be cleaned with soap

and water to remove residues which could still be allergenic or

toxic. It is important to wear personal protective equipment,

especially gloves, eye protection, and a good dust mask when

handling contaminated material and clean-up.