Is the mold in my home toxic or harmful?

This and other interesting facts about mold can be found in a flyer provided by the College of Family and Consumer Sciences and the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences through the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension Service.

The most noteworthy item is Item #4 from pamphlet HACE-E-62 "Mold - Five of the most commonly asked questions about household mold, with answers."

"#4.  Is the mold in my home toxic or harmful?

• According to the Institute of Medicine of the National Academies, mold in damp indoor environments is associated with upper respiratory (nasal and throat) tracts ymptoms, cough, hypersensitivity pneumonitis in susceptible persons, wheeze, and asthma symptoms in sensitized persons.

• Although the media talks about ‘toxic mold,’ the fact is that only a few fungi produce toxins on their spores. However, it is best to limit your exposure to all molds. "

Be sure to go to UGA Website and view the report for answers to the following questions:
 

• How do I get rid of excess mold?
• Who can test my home for mold?
• Where can I find a mold remediation specialist?
• How can I be certain that my home is mold-free?