So, your home has suffered some leaks, maybe total flooding, or maybe you have a damp/musty room. What are the real risks and what can you do about it now when getting a new kitchen installed or a builder available to do repairs has a wait list of up to six months!
First of all, let’s see what mould spores actually do to you; the World Health Organisation (WHO) specifically mentions a pneumonia-like illness and brain-bleeds as being a particular condition that arises from mould exposure along with a huge host of terrifying health complaints. The WHO also states that children are particularly susceptible to mould and its effects due to the way mould specifically attacks rapidly growing lung tissue.
When authorities talk about homes, they mainly talk about moisture – not mould. If they do approach mould they say things like “mould causes asthma, respiratory issues and occasionally other things.” Mould is painted as an irritant and little more. This is terribly misleading according to recent studies and educational material produced by the World Health Organisation. Most people who see mould in their homes would be shocked to know that mycotoxins are so dangerous they can be refined and used as chemical warfare agents.
What can you do?
In addition to visible mould, other signs of damp problems may include: mould odour, water stains, frequent condensation, peeling or cracked paint or wall paper, damp basement, and standing water under or around the house.
There are several practicable measures you can take to prevent or minimize indoor mould. These include adequately heating and, in colder climates, insulating your home to reduce air humidity levels and condensation. On sunny days especially, open windows as much as practical, consider installing a heat pump and use a dehumidifier, particularly in areas where water vapour may be emitted such as bathrooms and laundries. Position our Tea Tree gel units (with fan dispenser) in particularly bad spots as the natural anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties of our top-quality Tea Tree Oil acts as your natural defence to mould spores. Tea Tree vapour breaks down the molecular wall structure of the mould spore, stopping mould from taking hold.
If you find visible mould in your home, remove the mould safely; wear a mask, use our Tea Tree solution and spray the affected area. Return after a couple of hours to wipe away the ‘dead’ mould or hoover carpet and identify and address the cause of the excess moisture. You may need to throw away absorbent materials such as carpets, depending on the level of contamination.
Although those with pre-existing allergies or asthma are at greater risks, mould can also cause health effects in otherwise healthy people. So, measures to prevent or reduce mould exposure are important to everyone.
Sources:
http://thedailyblog.co.nz/2015/06/12/how-dangerous-is-mould-to-your-family/
http://www.stuff.co.nz/life-style/home-property/73674088/the-hidden-dangers-of-mould-in-the-home
