MY HEALTH RIGHTS

Q:    Are there certain geographical areas where houses are more prone to toxic mold?
A:   Houses built on previous chemical dumpsites or agricultural areas of heavy pesticide or fertilization use are havens for a wide variety of fungi species.   Houses built in flood zones, or prior flooded areas are excellent breeding grounds for toxic molds.
     
Q:    Fifty years ago, we didn’t have problems with environmental mold contamination.   Why?
A:   In the 1980′s, building codes changed nationwide and the dimensions for room size decreased to meet prevailing economic issues.   Consequently, when too many people occupy a smaller area, body sweat, breathing capacity, and other factors that cause humidity to rise, occur.   Add to this cooking, showering, plants, etc., and breeding of fungi species can proliferate rapidly.
     
Q:    As far as regular house cleaning goes, how can we prevent mold contamination?
A:   Vacuum at least twice per week, open windows at least 30 minutes per day to equalize inside and outdoor air levels, don’t allow cooking oils to build up, wipe mildew off window areas (all just general maintenance), and report or fix water intrusion factors quickly.Changing air filters monthly, drying wet clothing immediately, placing furniture a few inches away from wall areas to allow proper airflow, picking up and taking out household trash regularly, cleaning stains immediately or avoiding pet urination will help greatly.