Impact on health

Although mould is everywhere in exterior and interior air, higher concentrations can have harmful effects on health. Reactions depend on individual sensitivity. Typical symptoms include allergic rhinitis, aggravation or development of asthma, irritation of the respiratory tract and mucosa, and flu-like symptoms.

More precisely, a link between exposure to mould and the occurrence of respiratory effects has been confirmed, mainly for asthma in children, which strongly suggests a causal effect (Moisissures dans le bâti, Anses 2016; WHO guidelines for indoor air quality: dampness and mould, 2009). The aggravation of asthma in young children has also been linked to the presence of mould in the home.

Inhaling mould spores can impact health, as can the mycotoxins that are secreted by mould.