Mold as an Environmental Health Risk

Fort Edward CARE

Healthy Community Initiative

Mold Basics Mold is a natural part of the environment

Indoors and Outdoors Spores are airborne

Mold can grow on virtually any surface or substance where moisture is present

Mold can become a serious environmental health hazard if not treated promptly and properly

Public Policy & Community Protection Factors

Federal, State, County, Town and Village Government and Agencies Economic development and taxation Health care and social services Inspection and code enforcement Prompt and proper (action) remediation Public awareness and education

Personal Behavior and Protection Factors

Socio-economic Public awareness Access to education/training Empowered to reach out for help Existing health conditions

Economic Development Undercapitalized and socially

“unconscious” investors/landlords

Places of Exposure

Any surface or substance where mold spores meet up with moisture: Single & multi-family dwellings Schools & Public/Institutional Buildings Commercial, Industrial, Business, Office

and Professional Buildings

Apartment A/C

Commercial A/C Vent

Condensation Home Window

Hidden inside walls

Bathroom Cabinet

Leaking Sink Fixtures

Suitcase in Storage Closet

Stained Wood in Home

Routes of exposure

Inhalation Ingestion Skin Contact

Affected Populations

Mold is “Equal Opportunity” All age groups All socio-economic groups All occupations, professions Urban, suburban, rural settings

Environmental Health Status

Mold: Allergen, Irritant & (potentially) Toxic Allergic reaction may be immediate or delayed Symptoms are sneezing, runny nose, red eyes,

and skin rash (dermatitis) Irritation of the eyes, skin, nose, throat, and

lungs of both mold-allergic, non-allergic people. Individuals with existing respiratory conditions,

such as asthma are high-risk Individuals with existing immune-compromised

systems are high-risk