What Is the Effect of House Mold in Infants?

House mold is a serious problem contributing to allergies, infection, illness, and, in some cases, death. It is especially dangerous for people with compromised immune systems, the elderly, and infants. (See Resources section.)

SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome)

• Growth of the mold Stachybotrys found in water-damaged houses and used crib mattresses has been linked to cases of lung infections and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome.

Asthma

• By inflaming bronchial tissues and causing a blockage of the airway, house mold is a known trigger of asthma attacks in infants.

Allergies

• Mold has a causal relationship with allergies in infants, children and people with compromised immune systems. Coughing, sneezing and watery or inflamed eyelids are some of the symptoms seen in mold allergies.

Respiratory Problems

• In addition to asthma and allergies, mold is one of the causes of other respiratory problems in infants displaying symptoms of difficulty breathing, wheezing and shortness of breath.

Pneumonia

• House mold has been identified as the cause in serious and life threatening illnesses in infants such as pneumonia, croup and bronchitis.