Table of Contents
What type of mold is harmful to humans?
There are five categories of toxic mold. They are Cladosporium, Penicilium, Fusarium, Aspergillus, and Stachybotrys. Some of the species included in these categories may only cause hay fever-like allergic reactions, while others can cause potentially deadly illnesses.
Is black mold worse than other mold?
But the truth is that it most situations are nothing to panic about because: It has never been scientifically proven that black mold is any more harmful than other types and colors of mold. Only a small percentage of people are especially sensitive to mold (severe allergic reactions).
How do you know which mold is toxic?
Toxic mold can also have a grayish, soot-like texture, or a slimy, wet surface. In some cases, you may even notice furry orange or brown spots. If you find mold with any of these qualities in your home, don’t get too close, and call a professional right away.
Are all molds toxic?
Prolonged exposure, such as daily workplace exposure, can be particularly harmful. It is thought that all molds may produce mycotoxins, and thus all molds may be potentially toxic if large enough quantities are ingested, or the human becomes exposed to extreme quantities of mold.
Is some mold in a house OK?
All indoor environments have some mold spores in them, but this does not affect most people. However, people with a compromised immune system may have a higher risk of illness, and especially lung problems, if there are mold spores and mold in the environment. Others may experience allergic reactions.
Is black mold black?
The only two things you know for sure when you see “black mold” is you have mold and that it is black in color. That’s all. Scientifically, there is no mold genera or species that is called “black mold” or “toxic black mold.” Of the million-plus species of mold, about 20,000 species are indeed black.
Why is mold black?
Black mold grows in high-moisture areas, typically attributed to water leaks or unmitigated standing water. Improperly remediated water damage can also promote black mold growth.