Mold mitigation can prevent health problems Published June 6, 2012 By Capts. Christopher Judy and Brittany Chase 81st Aerospace Medicine Squadron KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. -- As summer approaches and humid weather settles in, mold will make its annual appearance in homes and buildings. Mold that is normally in the air becomes challenging when it settles on moist surfaces and begins to grow, causing structural damage as well as occasional symptoms such as allergies and runny noses for building occupants. It is important to take action to prevent mold growth in homes or offices well before summer begins. Building occupants can prevent or eliminate most mold growth. The first step is to create an atmosphere that is not conducive to growth. A dehumidifier goes a long way toward minimizing the mold-friendly environment. Also, keep windows and doors closed to avoid excess humidity and condensation. Next, if the contaminated area is less than 10 square feet, it can be wiped down with a solution of one part bleach and 10 parts water. Do not mix bleach with ammonia because it will create poisonous vapors. Protect skin and eyes from irritation by wearing gloves and eye protection. N-95 respirators are also handy and can be purchased at local hardware stores. They look like dust masks but are designed to fit snugly around the mouth and nose to provide more adequate protection from spores. They do not, however, protect against chemical gases or vapors. No matter how many times they are cleaned, large porous items are very difficult to thoroughly clean and mold is likely to return. Therefore, it is best to dispose of heavily-contaminated items. If the moldy area is larger than 10 square feet, it may be necessary to hire a professional to remove the water-damaged area, but be wary of businesses claiming to test or sample mold. If you are a resident of base housing, Forest City will evaluate and treat the problem. Do not call outside contractors if you live in base housing. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Environmental Protection Agency do not advocate mold testing because test results provide little useful information. No matter what species or how many spores are present, the remediation process is the same. In addition, every person has a different threshold for mold sensitivity, so a higher quantity of airborne mold does not necessarily mean more health problems. Anyone who experiences symptoms they suspect are caused by mold should visit their physician to be evaluated. If necessary, the doctor can recommend an evaluation of the patient's on-base house, which must be coordinated through Forest City. Those with no symptoms who see mold should notify their building manager so he or she can take appropriate steps to remedy the situation. Those living in base housing who wish to report mold should call Forest City at (855) 452-3499. The bottom line is that mold is all around in southern Mississippi but prevention and control can mitigate its effects. For more information go to www.epa.gov/mold or http://www.cdc.gov/mold/default.htm.