What is mold?
Molds are fungi and can be found in many environments around the world. Mold grows most in warm and wet environments and can be found indoors and outdoors.
Basics of mold- information from the EPA
Information about mold- information from CDC
Basics of mold- information from the EPA
Information about mold- information from CDC
How can public health help with mold?
If you find mold in your own home, it is your responsibility to safely remove the mold. You may need to seek the assistance of a professional. If you rent your home, speak with the property owner about removing the mold. Public health does not assist with mold removal or disputes between owners and renters.
Additional resources
Guidance for cleaning up mold
Washington Law Help-Housing- information for tenants to understand their rights and responsibilities as a renter
Indoor Air Quality- information for renters and owners on improving indoor air quality
Washington Law Help-Housing- information for tenants to understand their rights and responsibilities as a renter
Indoor Air Quality- information for renters and owners on improving indoor air quality
Is mold dangerous?
There are over 100,000 types of mold. Allergies to mold are common and may cause symptoms similar to other environmental allergies such as stuff nose, sore throat or itchy eyes. Mold can also be an asthma trigger for some people. Mold is more dangerous to small children, the elderly, those with respiratory problems, or compromised immune systems. Severe infections or reactions to mold are rare but can happen. If you find mold in your home, take steps to safely remove it. Preventing mold is important as it get more difficult to remove the longer it is there.
If you find mold on your food, do not eat the mold. Many foods will need to be thrown away if they develop mold. Some foods, such as blue cheese, intentionally contain mold. However, if any food develops mold after you purchase it, the food probably needs to be thrown away. Examples of when to keep and discard moldy food can be found here.
If you inhale or ingest mold you are more likely to have a reaction than simply touching mold. If you are removing mold, take precautions to avoid accidently inhaling or ingesting mold.
"Black mold" typically refers to a type of mold called Stachybotrys chartarum. However, many types of mold can be black and any type of mold can cause allergies or infections. Color is not an indicator for how dangerous mold is. Individuals can be allergic to any type of mold and some people may have stronger reactions. It generally is not necessary to identify the specific type of mold as all mold should be removed.
If you find mold on your food, do not eat the mold. Many foods will need to be thrown away if they develop mold. Some foods, such as blue cheese, intentionally contain mold. However, if any food develops mold after you purchase it, the food probably needs to be thrown away. Examples of when to keep and discard moldy food can be found here.
If you inhale or ingest mold you are more likely to have a reaction than simply touching mold. If you are removing mold, take precautions to avoid accidently inhaling or ingesting mold.
"Black mold" typically refers to a type of mold called Stachybotrys chartarum. However, many types of mold can be black and any type of mold can cause allergies or infections. Color is not an indicator for how dangerous mold is. Individuals can be allergic to any type of mold and some people may have stronger reactions. It generally is not necessary to identify the specific type of mold as all mold should be removed.
What is mildew?
Mildew is a type of mold. It is easily cleaned up and is the most common mold found in homes. If mildew is allowed to grow, it can require more effort to get rid of it.
How do I prevent mold?
Mold needs water to grow. Mold can be found in areas where leaks have occurred, after flooding or by wet items that are not cleaned up. Regular maintenance around the house can prevent mold from developing. Ventilation is especially important in bathrooms, laundry rooms and in the kitchen. Carpet can make it easier for mold to grow in damp environments.
Once mold starts to grow, it must be removed. In some cases, you may need to remove and replace carpets, drywall or tile to get rid of the mold.
Once mold starts to grow, it must be removed. In some cases, you may need to remove and replace carpets, drywall or tile to get rid of the mold.
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Asotin County Public Health leads the community through education and evidence-based practices to prevent illness, promote health, and protect the environment to improve the quality of life in our communities.