Mold can emerge when floods subside

Homes in the Greater Houston area that experienced recent flooding are at risk of developing mold because of the excess moisture and standing water.

Mold can pose a risk to everyone entering a home, but it’s hazardous to people with asthma, allergies and those with compromised immune systems. Mold is a type of fungus that sprouts from microscopic spores floating in the air.

According to the national Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, a home has 24 to 48 hours to dry out before it’s assumed it has mold growth. Mold can grow in walls, furniture, cardboard boxes, books, carpet, foods, insulation, showers, sinks, bathtubs, toilets, refrigerators, air conditioning vents and many other places inside a home.

Dr. Luis Ostrosky-Zeichner, chief of infectious diseases and epidemiology with UTHealth Houston, helped conduct a study following Hurricane Harvey which found a spike in hospitalizations in Houston with

patients with invasive mold infections, primarily in people who had weakened immune systems.

“When you inhale the spores of these molds, they get into

your lungs and normally your immune system is pretty good about controlling and getting rid of them, but when you have massive exposure, you overwhelm your immune system,”

Ostrosky-Zeichner said. “When your immune system is not working well, you have no chance in controlling it.”

Invasive mold infections usually begin in the lungs, where the spores begin eating away at the lungs by creating little cavities. The spores will eventually enter the body’s bloodstream that can cause people to get sick and potentially die, OstroskyZeichner said.

Mold can appear as little pink or black substances growing in moist or humid areas around the home. The CDC recommends removing mold growth from hard surfaces using commercial products, soap and water or beach. If one does decide to use bleach to get rid of mold, the CDC says:

• Never mix bleach with ammonia or other household cleaners.

• Open windows and doors to provide fresh air while using it.

• Wear non-porous gloves and use protective eye wear.

If you are entering a home or building with known mold damage, the CDC recommends wearing N-95 respirators, goggles or eye protection, protective gloves, long pants and waterproof boots.

The CDC also recommended using a qualified professional to investigate if a home or building has mold.

Brett Coomer/Staff photographer Yanira Diaz stands in her muddy living room on Monday as she begins the cleanup of her flood-damaged home in the River Plantation neighborhood of Conroe.