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Flooded Homes May Harbor Mold Problems
Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency
October 24, 2003
HARRISBURG, Pa., Oct. 24 /PRNewswire/ -- Flooding hit sections of
Pennsylvania more than a month ago, but residents may still face serious
mold problems, state and federal officials said.
"You should be concerned about mold, particularly if
the amount is extensive," said David M. Sanko, director of the
Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency. "If mold does develop, fixing
the problem quickly is important and could save homeowners thousands in
mold removal costs and potential health problems in the future."
Molds are simple microscopic organisms found virtually
everywhere, indoors and outdoors. When mold is present in large quantities
it can result in allergic symptoms similar to those caused by plant
pollen.
Be aware that exposure to mold can occur during
cleanup. To minimize exposure, use a mask or respirator, wear rubber
gloves and take breaks in a well-ventilated area.
"Be careful when cleaning mold," said Federal
Coordinating Officer Tom Davies of the Federal Emergency Management Agency
(FEMA). "Mold grows within two days, so the sooner mold is removed, the
lower the chance of long-term health effects." Chester County was declared
a disaster area after severe storms and flooding that hit the area Sept.
15-23.
When airborne mold spores are present in large numbers
they can cause allergic reactions, asthma episodes, infections, and other
respiratory problems. People who are at higher risk from the effects of
mold include infants and children; the elderly; people with compromised
immune systems because of HIV infection, liver disease, or chemotherapy;
pregnant women; and people with existing respiratory conditions such as
allergies, multiple chemical sensitivity, and asthma. People with these
conditions should consult a physician if they are experiencing health
problems.
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in jpeg file format as email attachments. |
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