As part of this year’s World Allergy Week the National Asthma Council has issued a household mould prevention checklist, warning Australians that indoor mould is a hazard after Australia’s Big Wet. After prolonged wet, warm and humid weather across Australia, (including floods or the cyclone) people should be aware of and know how to tackle mould. There are more than seven million Australians who have allergies, including asthma, which is often triggered when people spend more time indoors with mould, dust mites and indoor pollutants.
On the National Asthma council website, Professor Sheryl Van Nunen, a Sydney-based Clinical Immunologist and Allergist, says that our recent rain, high humidity and warm temperatures provide excellent conditions for the growth and spread of toxic mould that can be damaging to health. “Mould in homes can trigger asthma symptoms for many people living with asthma or allergies, as they create spores which are airborne and can be inhaled”.
What symptoms may increase?
Coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and a greater need for medications.
What we need to do?
The National Asthma Council Australia has issued this mould prevention checklist:
- Promptly remove any mould that appears
- Treat the cause of rising damp as soon as it is detected
- Make sure you have enough natural ventilation, including an extractor fan for the bathroom and laundry
- Seal any leaks in bathrooms and roofs
- Clear any overflowing gutters and blocked vents
- Remove indoor pot plants (which promote mould growth)
- Avoid the use of organic mulches and compost heaps.
If you have been flooded:
- Dry or remove wet carpets and furnishings as soon as you can
- Be ruthless with the clean out, if possible – hidden damp can cause ongoing problems
- Consider using a dehumidifier to help dry out the space
- Remove any visible mould by cleaning with naturally fermented white vinegar solution
- Keep an eye out for mould in the unflooded areas of the house.
For more information on asthma and allergies, visit the National Asthma Council Australia website: https://www.nationalasthma.org.au/news/2017/mould-health-hazard-warning-after-australias-big-wet
