Mold, Mildew and Fungi from Flooding
Molds are fungi that can be found everywhere. They reproduce by means of spores that are invisible to the naked eye and float through outdoor and indoor air. These fungi can grow on almost any substance where moisture is present. Molds can grow on ceilings, walls, under sinks, drywall, ductwork, furniture, and wood, among other materials. When there is a lot of moisture present, high humidity, and temperatures are above 65°F, mold spores become active and start to grow rapidly. There are many types of molds, and none of them will grow without water or moisture. Outdoors, molds can break down dead organic matter, such as fallen leaves and dead trees. There is no practical way to eliminate all mold and mold spores in the indoor environment. The key to controlling indoor mold growth is controlling the moisture source.
While the Blue Ridge Health District does not perform indoor air testing or remediation for mold, this page provides links to resources to address some of the most common questions and concerns about indoor mold, how it affects human health, and ways in which you can prevent or remove it.
After a flood or major water leak, be alert to the possibility of mold growing in your home or place of business. Mold clean-up begins after the water has stopped, the area is dry and can be kept dry. These websites offer comprehensive information on how to prevent and clean up mold:
If you are a renter and have a problem in your rental unit involving leaking water or flooding, please talk to your landlord or apartment management company about the issue first. If you rent your home and the Landlord is not addressed within a reasonable amount of time or is unwilling to treat the problem, you can contact the Legal Aid ……
Resources
Radon
Exposure to indoor radon, a colorless, odorless radioactive gas, is thought to be the second leading cause of lung cancer, and the leading cause of lung cancer among people who have never smoked. Exposure to radon may contribute to 21,000 cases of lung cancer each year in the United States, including almost 700 cases per year in Virginia.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) classifies radon risk areas as Zones 1, 2 or 3. Virginia has 46 counties and 15 cities that are classified as Zone 1 (high risk), and 24 counties and 8 cities classified as Zone 2 (moderate risk). Click here for a VA risk map. Testing your home, workplace or other normally occupied area is the only way to know for sure if an indoor radon problem exists. For more details about radon testing and mitigation, see Radon Testing & Mitigation.
The Code of Virginia requires that Radon testers and mitigators be currently certified by either the National Radon Proficiency Program (NRPP) or the National Radon Safety Board (NRSB). The link noted above can be utilized to search for radon testers and mitigators by state.
VDH is making a limited supply of short-term, do-it-yourself radon test kits available for only a $3 shipping fee. This offer will only be available between the dates of October 1 and April 30 each year or until the available supply of test kits runs out. Order your test kits here.
For further information, read the EPA publication, Home Buyers and Sellers Guide to Radon.