Sophia J. KennedyIt is autumn, which conjures up images of vibrant foliage and pumpkin spice lattes. It also means that we are officially in hurricane season! Increased storm activity and hazardous conditions present a threat: mold. Storms provide an environment of high humidity and moisture that are ideal for the growth of mold.
Where does mold even come from?
Molds are a type of fungi, and their role in the environment is to break down organic matter. These fungi reproduce by releasing spores into the air. You may have noticed the smell of some of these spores during autumn, as the bountiful fallen leaves are a source of food for mold. Mold populations increase during autumn, allowing them to easily spread from outside spaces into our indoor retreats.
The types of mold commonly found indoors include species from genera such as Alternaria, Aspergillus, Cladosporium, Penicillium, and Stachybotrys chartarum (black mold). While mold spores are always present in the air, they can become problematic when their concentration indoors becomes too high. This can lead to unpleasant health effects, including cold and allergy symptoms. There is even evidence suggesting that mold can negatively affect mental health and could play a role in developing neurological (brain) disorders.
Mold requires moisture to thrive. Once it finds moisture, mold can grow on practically any surface, making it a significant threat to human health once it colonizes. Unless you live in an arid climate, it is very difficult to keep the humidity levels low enough to deter mold growth. Controlling the humidity levels and regular cleaning with detergents are ways to reduce the spread of mold. Ways to reduce the amount of mold in the air include providing adequate ventilation of fresh air and incorporating an air filter that can trap airborne spores. Knowing how to tackle mold is important for safeguarding your health.
Peer Editor: Maria X. Cardenas-Alvarez