NEWS for North Dakotans
Agriculture Communication, North Dakota State University
7 Morrill Hall, Fargo, ND 58105-5665

February 18, 1999

NDSU Researcher: Home, Building Mold a Concern; Panic Not Warranted

A relatively common mold-producing fungus with more than a century-long history for causing health problems in animals and humans is present in soils throughout this region, says a researcher at North Dakota State University. Homes and buildings that have been flooded or that have sustained substantial water damage from broken pipes, sewage backups, condensation—even leaky roofs—may be harboring this fungus (Stachybotrys chartarum).

But because the mold spores this fungus produces are not readily airborne, concern—not panic—is warranted.

"Removing contaminated materials from the home or building is usually the best option for reducing potential health risks," says Berlin Nelson, a professor of plant pathology at NDSU. "Also, correcting any moisture problems will prevent further mold development."

Skin rash, sore throat, nasal passages that burn, a tightness of the chest, a persistent cough, headache, fatigue and fever—all are symptoms of what's come to be known as sick building syndrome. Molds are one of the factors involved in sick building syndrome, Nelson says. People exposed to the S. chartarum fungus may experience some of these symptoms.

Fungal spores can collect on drywall, insulation, wallpaper, ceiling tiles, carpets with natural fibers, paper covering on insulated pipes, on wood and on organic debris in ducts, Nelson says. Because leaks can occur behind walls and in covered ceilings, the fungus can grow profusely out of sight.

"Wet conditions are required to initiate growth," Nelson says. "Heavily infested areas will appear black, and can be slightly shiny when wet and powdery when dry."

Home owners who suspect the presence of this fungus should not attempt to solve the problem without following the recommended safety procedures for working with toxic molds. Heavy contaminations may require the use of a respirator and proper coverings for skin and eyes, Nelson explains.

"Get advice if there is a serious problem," Nelson stresses. "Disinfecting the surface of contaminated materials may kill the fungus there, but spores beneath the surface often will survive."

Nelson says Europeans first identified the S. chartarum fungus in 1837. Outbreaks of a new disease in horses and other animals began occurring in the Ukraine and other parts of Eastern Europe during the 1930s. Russian scientists later associated the disease with the fungus, and in the 1940s a number of Russians became ill after coming in contact with animal feed and straw that were infested with the fungus.

Nelson has written a scientific report on the S. chartarum fungus that will continue to appear on the Web site of the American Phytopathological Society through the end of February. The report is accessible at http://www.scisoc.org/.

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Source: Berlin Nelson (701) 231-7057

Editor: Dean Hulse (701) 231-6136