High Mold Levels Reported Across the Chicago Area

Sept. 24, 2012 - PRLog -- Earlier this month, Chicago’s WLS-TV reported that the area was experiencing extremely high mold counts in the outdoor air.  The report stated that a mold count of 60,000 had been recorded and warned area residents of potential allergic reactions and encouraged people to stay indoors in an air conditioned space.

Many people recognize that high levels of mold in the natural environment can cause allergies and even trigger asthma attacks in some people.  Just as elevated levels of mold outdoors can cause these issues, when mold grows in an indoor environment people may have the same reactions which can last year round.

Inhaling or touching mold or mold spores in a person’s home, school or office may cause allergic reactions in many people.  Both dead and alive mold can cause these allergic reactions in some people.  Allergic reactions to mold are common and can be immediate or delayed. Allergic responses may include hay fever-like symptoms such as headache, sneezing, runny nose, red eyes, and skin rash.  Repeated or single exposure to mold, mold spores, or mold fragments may cause non-sensitive individuals to become sensitive to mold, and repeated exposure has the potential to increase sensitivity.
“When mold does grow indoors, the occupants of a building may begin to report odors and a variety of symptoms including headaches, difficulty breathing, skin irritation, allergic reactions, and aggravated asthma symptoms,” reported Ed Chambers, President of EC2, a local indoor air quality consulting expert.  “These and other symptoms may be associated with exposure to mold. Molds produce allergens, irritants, and, in some cases, potentially toxic substances known as mycotoxins. Air testing can help determine if there is a mold problem and the experts at EC2 can help identify the root cause so that the mold issue can be effectively resolved.”
EC2 has sponsored a video about the health effects of inhaling mold that can be seen at:
http://youtu.be/DbKoonHwvHM



To learn more about how EC2 can help test for mold, allergens, mycotoxins or other IAQ contaminants, please visit http://www.4ec2inc.com, email info@4ec2inc.com or call (815) 703-9000.

About EC2, Inc.
EC2 is a leading provider of environmental consulting and inspection services for clients across the United States.  Based in the Chicago area, the company provides their services to clients ranging from local companies and institutions to international Fortune 500 Corporations.