Fungal Research Group Foundation, Inc.

Toxigenic Stachybotrys atra and other allergenic and toxic fungi...

A growing number of research studies and disease investigations  show an alarming rate of high concentrations of potentially poisonous or allergy producing fungi (mold) found in offices/homes with severe water damage or chronic moisture problems. Some of these fungi or its microbial products can cause medically important diseases, such as infection, allergy, asthma and even systemic body poisoning (called: mycotoxicosis). Exposure can come from skin contact, inhalation or ingestion of fungal materials.

Principally, molds are ubiquitous and normal in our environment - and in most cases there is no reason for panic, if appropriate guidelines and recommendations are followed. Certainly not all molds (or fungi) are considered "bad", but recently there have been reports linking toxic and allergenic fungi such as Stachybotrys atra with ill health in an office building in New York City and cases of hemorrhagic lung disease in infants.