How to Protect Yourself from Fungal Diseases

Flood conditions contribute to the growth and transmission of many kinds of fungi, some of which can cause sickness. Cleanup workers are at increased risk of exposure to airborne fungi and their spores because they often handle moldy compost, decaying vegetable matter, and other fungus-contaminated debris. The fungal material is carried into the respiratory tract when airborne dust particles are inhaled.

Fungal Diseases

There are many different kinds of fungi, including mildew, molds, rusts, and yeasts. Most of these are harmless, but some can cause skin, respiratory, and other disorders when workers inhale or come into contact with fungi. Inhalation is the route of exposure of most concern to flood cleanup workers.

Wet crops and moldy compost encourage the growth of the fungi responsible for most outbreaks of an acute respiratory disease known as hypersensitivity pneumonitis (also called “farmer’s lung”). Compost or hay piles that have a water content of 40 percent or greater and that have warmed to temperatures in the 104º to 140ºF range present ideal growing conditions for the fungi associated with this illness. Venting silos or other areas prior to entry should ensure adequate ventilation.

The signs and symptoms of hypersensitivity pneumonitis are the same, regardless of the particular fungus responsible. They include chills; fever as high as 104ºF, shortness of breath, muscle aches, pain behind the breastbone, and other flu like symptoms. The disease begins suddenly, 4 to 6 hours after exposure to dust borne fungal spores, and lasts for 12 to 14 hours. If you should experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention promptly. Recovery is usually spontaneous, providing that you are not re-exposed to the fungus.

Repeated or prolonged contact of the skin with moisture, especially during hot weather, can lead to fungal infections of the skin. These can be minimized or avoided by washing the skin with warm, soapy water and keeping it as dry as possible.  If a serious fungus infection develops on your skin, seek medical advice.

Certain fungi produce poisons called mycotoxins that can cause death if ingested in sufficient quantity—for example, if moldy grain is used to make bread. Therefore, such grains should not be used for food.

What to do if Symptoms Develop

If a cleanup worker experiences any of the signs or symptoms listed above, medical advice should be sought. Your health care provider will tell you whether you need to take medication and/or follow any other precautions.

Tips to Remember

  • Avoid breathing dust (fungal spores) generated by wet vegetable matter.
  • Wear a dust mask when working with moldy or damp hay, grain, compost, or building materials.
  • Surfaces that have a light covering of mold should be scrubbed with warm, soapy water and rinsed with a disinfectant made of 1/2 cup of liquid household bleach mixed in one gallon of water.
  • Do not mix bleach with other cleaning products.                                                         
  • Articles that are heavily contaminated with mold should be discarded. When in doubt, throw it out
  • If the safety of a food or beverage is questionable, throw it out.
  • After working with mold-contaminated materials, wash thoroughly, including the hair, scalp, and nails.
This fact sheet discusses the health hazards potentially confronting workers cleaning up flood-contaminated areas and workplaces. For more information on OSHA, OSHA assistance, or consultation services, contact your nearest regional or area office listed on the back of this fact sheet, the OSHA Publications, P.O. Box 37535, Washington, DC 20013-7535, (202) 693-1888 (phone), or (202) 693-2498 (fax); or visit OSHA’s website at www.osha.gov.