Sunrise Health Region is reminding residents throughout the region who have been affected by recent flooding of the risks related to the development of and exposure to mould. Mould growth is expected in buildings in the aftermath of floods. Substantial exposure to indoor mould can cause signs and symptoms including:
Skin irritation Eye irritation Headache and fatigue Respiratory signals such as cough, nasal congestion or aggravation of asthma
Many other diseases may also cause these symptoms, however, if your home or business has been flooded and you experience these or any other symptoms of mould exposure, please visit your family physician as soon as possible for an assessment. Some individuals may be at a higher risk to experience adverse health effects from mould exposure including:
Infants and children Pregnant women Elderly individuals Individuals with immunodeficiency (such as those with uncontrolled diabetes, HIV, people currently receiving chemotherapy or immunosuppressive drugs) Individuals with respiratory conditions such as asthma
More information on moulds and mould exposure can be found in the Facts about Mould document which can be viewed in the Flood Clean-up information section of the Sunrise Health Region website.
