Mold Exposure and Health Effects Following Hurricanes Katrina and Rita

Abstract

The extensive flooding in the aftermath of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita created conditions ideal for indoor mold growth, raising concerns about the possible adverse health effects associated with indoor mold exposure. Studies evaluating the levels of indoor and outdoor molds in the months following the hurricanes found high levels of mold growth. Homes with greater flood damage, especially those with >3 feet of indoor flooding, demonstrated higher levels of mold growth compared with homes with little or no flooding. Water intrusion due to roof damage was also as- sociated with mold growth. However, no increase in the occurrence of adverse health outcomes has been observed in published reports to date. This article considers reasons why studies of mold exposure after the hurricane do not show a greater health impact. 165 Annu. Rev. Public. Health. 2010.31:165-178. Downloaded from arjournals.annualreviews.org by Salus University/Pennsylvania College of Optometry on 08/12/10. For personal use only. Click here for quick links to Annual Reviews content online, including: • Other articles in this volume • Top cited articles • Top downloaded articles • Our comprehensive search Further ANNUAL REVIEWS LDHH: Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals

Part of Mold & water-damaged buildings research · Curated by Lauren Lowenstein, The Biotoxin Lady

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