Got Mold? Clean, Disinfect And Dry
Release Date: October 5, 2006
Release Number: 1604-455
» More Information on Mississippi Hurricane Katrina
BILOXI, Miss. -- Mold is commonplace along Mississippi’s Gulf Coast due to the area’s warm and humid climate. However, the solution to the problem is relatively simple.
Care should be taken to clean and dry the areas of the home where moisture tends to accumulate. This advice applies to travel trailers and mobile homes. Site-constructed houses are particularly vulnerable if they sustained floodwaters during Katrina.
Dampness in walls, carpets, insulation and wood provides an environment for mold to flourish. These materials generally should be discarded if they become saturated. Mold also can ruin paper and fabric.
“FEMA maintenance contractors make monthly routine maintenance visits. Occupants should take that opportunity to talk with inspectors about problems and ask about mold prevention. This will go a long way toward keeping the units free of mold thereby maintaining a healthy environment for themselves and their families,” said Nick Russo, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) federal coordinating officer. “Occupants also may call the toll-free Maintenance/Applicant Support helpline, 1-866-877-6075, if they encounter severe mold or other maintenance problems they cannot take care of themselves.”
When a large amount of mold is left to grow, it can trigger allergic reactions, asthma episodes, infections and other respiratory problems. In addition, exposure can cause development of an allergy to mold, resulting in long-term health problems.
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention recommends everyone avoid unnecessary exposure. It also warns some people to avoid mold completely such as children under 12, transplant recipients, cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy and people with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
Tackle the job of cleaning severe instances of mold by wearing gloves, a face mask and protective goggles.
###
Got Mold? Clean, Disinfect And Dry,
