Many species of fungi have probably been present in human suffering since the dawn of time... yet only recently have the adverse health effects from fungal exposure been identified by the medical community.
Today, certain fungi and mold are known to be responsible for allergies, pneumonitis, fever, infections and many other ailments.
A few of the molds/fungi species that can be hazardous to our health:
Aspergillus
Stachybotrys
Penicillium
Paecilmyces
Fusarium
Mycotoxins
Stachybotrys Chartarum (atras)
is a greenish-black fungus that is found throughout the world and is typically wet and slimy.
There are 15 different species that need 50% humidity to grow. Stachybotrys thrives on materials high in cellulose and low in nitrogen content... wet carpet, wallpaper, leaves, straw, gypsum board, paper and drywall...each of these materials have the propensity to become water logged or chronically moist due to excessive humidity, plumbing leaks, flooding, etc.
Mold needs a moist, wet or damp environment in order to grow and thrive. Sources in and around the huse that can create such an environment
include plumbing pipes, leaky roofs, etc.
When flooding has occurred, dry-out is of the ut-most importance. When the mold dries, multiple toxic chemicals called mycotoxins can fragment
and become airborne come into contact with humans. Of particular concern is the threat that humans, especially infants, will inhale these toxic spores.
Eliminating Stachybotrys from the Home
Stachybotrys is often hidden under floor boards, within walls, under the carpet, etc. and can be therefore difficult to detect. Once located, removing Stachybotrys is usually accomplished by cleaning with a solution of bleach and water.
Extensive infestations may necessitate hiring a professional restoration service with clean-up expertise and equipment.
