Molds are microscopic organisms, found virtually everywhere, indoors
and outdoors. Molds can be found on plants, foods, dry leaves, and
other organic material. Also susceptible to mold growth are cellulose
materials, such as, cardboard, paper, ceiling tiles, and sheet rock.
Mold spores are easily detached and made airborne by vacuuming, walking
on a carpet or sitting on a couch. In indoor environments, mold can
grow in air conditioning ducts, carpets, pots of houseplants, etc.
Exposure to mold is not healthy for anyone but the following
individuals are at a higher risk for adverse health effects: infants,
children, elderly, immune compromised patients, pregnant women, and
individuals with existing respiratory conditions. When inhaled, even in
small amounts, mold can cause a wide range of health problems including
respiratory problems (wheezing), nasal and sinus congestion, watery and
red eyes, nose and throat irritation, skin irritation, aches and pains,
fevers, asthma, emphysema and in some cases even death.
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