Mold prevention strategies and possible health effects in the aftermath of floods

1.   Extensive water damage after major hurricanes and floods increases the likelihood of mold contamination in buildings.

2.   The recommendations assume that, in the aftermath of major hurricanes or floods, buildings wet for<48 hours will generally support visible and extensive mold growth and should be remediated, and excessive exposure to mold-contaminated materials can cause adverse health effects in susceptible persons regardless of the type of mold or the extent of contamination.

3.   For the majority of persons, undisturbed mold is not a substantial health hazard.

4.   Mold is a greater hazard for persons with conditions such as impaired host defenses or mold allergies.

5.   To prevent exposure that could result in adverse health effects from disturbed mold, persons should 1) avoid areas where mold contamination is obvious; 2) use environmental controls; 3) use personal protective equipment; and 4) keep hands, skin, and clothing clean and free from mold-contaminated dust.

6.   In the aftermath of extensive flooding, health-care providers should be watchful for unusual mold-related diseases.

Reference : Brandt M, Brown C, Burkhart J, Burton N, Cox-Ganser J, Damon S, Falk H, Fridkin S, Garbe P, McGeehin M, Morgan J, Page E, Rao C, Redd S, Sinks T, Trout D, Wallingford K, Warnock D, Weissman D: MMWR Recomm Rep. 2006;55(RR-8):1.