Cinnaminson, New Jersey, September 28, 2023
People, especially those with weakened immune systems, can develop invasive mold infections days to weeks after exposure to fungi that live in the environment warns the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The agency even advises physicians to keep invasive mold infections in mind when treating people who are sick after exposure to mold following a flood.
Those at elevated risk of developing an invasive mold infection according to the CDC include those who:
- Have had a transplant, especially hematopoietic stem cell transplants
- Have cancer, especially hematologic cancers like leukemia and lymphoma
- Are undergoing cancer treatment (chemotherapy)
- Are taking medications that weaken the immune system, such as corticosteroids and biologics
“Mold grows where there is moisture, often within 24-48 hours of a flood or other water damaging event,” said Jason Dobranic, Ph.D., Vice President of Microbiology and Life Sciences at EMSL Analytical, Inc. “Even if the mold is not visible, it could be present behind walls, floors or in other places that could still put vulnerable people at risk. To support infection control programs in hospitals, nursing homes and other high-risk environments, EMSL Analytical offers laboratory testing services, sampling supplies and easy-to-use test kits to detect microbial pathogens. We also provide air monitoring instruments, building inspection tools and other resources to help safeguard all building occupants.”
EMSL recently sponsored an educational video about invasive mold infections and exposure risks for immunocompromised people that can be seen at: https://youtu.be/BIZz8x_k_24
To learn more about mold or other indoor environmental quality (IEQ) and infection control testing resources, please visit www.EMSL.com, email info@EMSL.com or call (800) 220-3675. To access mold or other IEQ test kits, visit www.EMSLTestKits.com.
About EMSL Analytical, Inc.
EMSL Analytical is one of the leading testing laboratories with locations throughout the United States and Canada. EMSL is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider specializing in fast laboratory results for mold, bacteria,
Legionella, USP <797>, pathogens, asbestos, lead, soot, char & ash from fires, VOCs, odors, radon, formaldehyde, indoor air quality, microbiology, environmental, industrial hygiene, radiological, food, beverage & consumer products and material testing services for the identification of unknown substances. EMSL services both professionals and the general public. EMSL maintains an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies including, but not limited to A2LA, AIHA LAP, LLC. (AIHA EMLAP, AIHA IHLAP, AIHA ELLAP), NVLAP, CDC ELITE, CPSC, CA ELAP, NY ELAP, TX DOH, NJDEP and multiple other state accrediting agencies. Please visit our website at
www.EMSL.com for a complete listing of accreditations. In addition, EMSL carries a wide range of Sampling Equipment and Investigative Products for environmental professionals.