When water damage or elevated humidity levels cause mold to grow indoors, one common type of mold that is often present is known as Aspergillus. There are a number of different species of Aspergillus that can be found in moldy indoor environments and naturally outdoors.  Some of these species can cause a potentially life-threatening condition known as aspergillosis.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that most people breathe in Aspergillus spores every day without getting sick, but people with a weakened immune system or lung disease are at a higher risk of developing health problems due to exposure. Of the approximately 180 species of Aspergillus, fewer than 40 of them are known to cause infections in humans. Of these, Aspergillus fumigatus is the most common cause of human infections, while other common species include A. flavus, A. terreus, and A. niger.

It is difficult to determine how many aspergillosis infections occur in the United States because it is not a reportable infection according to the CDC. The agency does state that milder, allergic forms of aspergillosis are more common than the invasive forms of the infection.  The various types of aspergillosis include allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA), allergic Aspergillus sinusitis, aspergilloma, chronic pulmonary aspergillosis, invasive aspergillosis, and cutaneous aspergillosis.

“We are all exposed to mold, more specifically mold spores, on a daily basis,” said Michael Berrevoets, President, VOETS, LLC. “Fortunately, we are seldom exposed to elevated or hazardous levels. In situations, such as healthcare environments, nursing homes, and anywhere that has patients or residents with weakened immune systems, due to the possible presence of Aspergillus and other species, extreme vigilance for indoor mold contamination must be maintained. While even people with unaffected immune or respiratory systems can become ill, either elevated levels or reduced resistance can significantly increase the dangers from exposure to those individuals who have compromised systems.”

To identify and resolve mold in indoor environments contaminated with Aspergillus or other types of fungi, VOETS offers comprehensive inspections and testing. If a problem is discovered, their experts can diagnose potential root causes so corrective actions can be taken to resolve the issue.

VOETS also recently sponsored an educational video aspergillosis and moldy indoor environments that can be seen at: https://youtu.be/z9rpI15Enao