Characterisation of stachybotrys chartarum from water damaged buildings

Abstract

Fungal contaminated buildings and related adverse human health implications have long been a topical issue throughout the world and concern is mounting with regards to the presence of more toxigenic fungi found in buildings and the associated health risks. These risks are compounded when homes are affected by water damage as a result of water intrusion problems, in particular flooding. With the ever changing climate and unpredictable weather conditions the frequency of flash flooding has increased in recent years and is set to increase and subsequently more homes will inevitably be effected by mould contamination. The present study initially aimed to determine the types of fungi commonly detected in buildings in the United Kingdom with varied levels of water intrusion problems via a small survey using various sampling techniques and particularly aimed to determine the conditions by which growth of the toxigenic fungi Stachybotrys chartarum could occur. Penicillium, Cladosporium and Aspergillus species were the most commonly detected fungi in buildings with relatively moderate levels of water intrusion problems; Stacybotrys chartarum was only detected in building with more severe water intrusion problems. Cont/d.