Moulds are a type of fungus that can be found indoors and outdoors. They usually grow where there is moisture, warmth (2° to 40°C), and a food supply (such as clothing, wood or drywall).
Mould spores and the toxins produced by certain moulds may be harmful to vulnerable people.
How could my family and I be exposed?
Mould spores can be released into the air when mouldy material is damaged or disturbed. You could be exposed to mould if you breathe in mould spores, breathe in the toxins that certain moulds produce, swallow mouldy material or directly handle mouldy material.
People who work in certain occupations may have higher exposures to mould.
What are the symptoms and health effects?
Mould exposure can cause nose and eye irritation, wheezing, congestion and coughing.
Exposure to common moulds does not generally cause serious, life threatening or long lasting health effects. However, exposure to large amounts of mould may cause severe reactions.
People with asthma, hay fever or other allergies could experience temporary respiratory symptoms when exposed to low amounts of common moulds.
People with weakened immune systems (e.g., from HIV infection, cancer treatment, kidney failure or diabetes) could develop lung infections when exposed to certain moulds, such as Aspergillus.
What should I do if I find mould?
If you find mould, you should clean the area and try to prevent mould from returning. For extensive mould growth, you may require professional help.
To clean mould:
- Mix detergent with warm water, according to the instructions on the label.
- Use a sponge or rag to apply the detergent solution to the mouldy surface. Scrub the area.
- Thoroughly dry the surface.
- Dispose of the used sponges or rags.
To prevent mould from growing:
- Fix any water leaks as quickly as possible
- If you experience water damage in your home, remove all water-soaked materials (e.g., carpets)
- Use a dehumidifier or air conditioner during humid months
- Keep the humidity in your home below 50 per cent
- Use exhaust fans in washrooms and kitchens
- Avoid carpeting in washrooms and basements
- Add mould inhibitors to paint before applying
Mould and school portables
School portables tend to be sources of mould because they are susceptible to water leaks and they often have poor ventilation or humidity control.
Peel Public Health provides advice to the Peel District School Board and the Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board on inspecting, cleaning and maintaining portable classrooms. It is the responsibility of each school board to inspect, clean and maintain school buildings and portables for the health and safety of all occupants.
If you have concerns about mould in your child's school, Peel Public Health recommends that you contact the school principal or a member of the School Council. Although the low level of mould exposure at school is unlikely to cause serious health problems, you should take your child to see a doctor if he/she has nose or eye irritation, coughing, congestion or aggravated asthma.
Resources and links
Information on mould
Laboratories testing for mould
Peel School Boards
Bed bugs