Schedule Anything
BayCare offers several convenient health care services that help get care you need to get back to feeling better.
Post-Storm Safety: Mold, Respiratory Symptoms and Heat-Related Illnesses
October 01, 2024
After storm flooding, one of the most common health and safety concerns is the growth of mold in our homes. To help guide you through the recovery process, Dr. Laura Arline, BayCare's vice president and chief quality officer, along with Dr. Sowmya Viswanathan, BayCare's chief physician executive, share essential information and resources on preventing mold-related respiratory issues and protecting yourself from heat-related illnesses.
MOLD: The Hidden Post-Storm Danger
Mold thrives in damp, humid environments, making flood-affected areas particularly vulnerable. When floodwaters recede, moisture remains in the walls, floors and other surfaces, creating ideal conditions for mold growth within just 24 to 48 hours. Mold can lead to serious structural damage in buildings and pose health risks, including respiratory problems, allergic reactions, and sinus congestion from prolonged exposure. For vulnerable groups like children, the elderly or those with pre-existing conditions, these risks can be more pronounced.
Why Mold Matters
Mold releases microscopic spores into the air, which can be inhaled and lead to health problems. Common symptoms of mold exposure include:
- Nasal congestion
- Throat irritation
- Coughing
- Wheezing
- Eye irritation
For individuals with asthma, allergies or other underlying respiratory issues, mold exposure can trigger more severe reactions, including asthma attacks, or worsen chronic lung conditions.
Prolonged exposure to mold can also lead to more serious health problems such as infections, especially in people with weakened immune systems.
How to Prevent Mold Growth After a Flood
To minimize the risk of mold growth after flooding, it’s essential to act quickly.
- Start Drying Immediately: Begin drying out your home within the first 24 to 48 hours of the floodwaters receding. Remove wet carpets, furniture, and other porous materials that can harbor mold.
- Ventilate and Dehumidify: Once you are sure that the electrical system in the home is safe, use dehumidifiers, fans and ventilation to accelerate the drying process.
- Clean Thoroughly: Disinfecting surfaces with mold-killing solutions like bleach or commercially available products can help prevent mold from developing.
When to Get Help
If you notice significant mold growth or experience persistent health issues, it may be time to consult a professional mold remediation service. These experts can assess the extent of the mold problem and ensure that it is removed safely and thoroughly, reducing the health risks associated with exposure. It's also important to wear protective gear, such as gloves and masks, when handling mold to prevent inhalation of or contact with spores.
HEAT-RELATED ILLNESSES: A Serious Risk During Cleanup
As recovery efforts continue, residents also need to be aware of the dangers of heat-related illnesses like heat stroke, heat exhaustion, and heat cramps. According to the National Weather Service, extreme heat is the leading weather-related cause of death in the U.S., making it critical to take precautions during clean-up efforts.
Refer to the infographic below to familiarize yourself with the symptoms and treatment for heat-related illnesses.
By taking these steps, you and your family can recover safely after a storm, while preventing both mold growth and heat-related illnesses. If you or a family member experience any concerning symptoms, reach out to your nearest BayCare facility.
At BayCare, we prioritize the health and safety of our communities and team members. Anticipating that thousands of team members are suffering severe impacts from Hurricane Helene, BayCare Health System has created a special relief fund to support staff in need.