Drying laundry indoors may trigger a deadly asthma attack, an expert warns.
Moist environments create the ideal breeding grounds for mould, which then releases spores, she said.
Spores, which are invisible, can trigger allergic reactions or even asthma attacks, she adds.
Young children, the elderly and those with suppressed immune systems, such as chemotherapy patients, may be particularly at risk.
The expert advises we dry our laundry outside if possible, use tumble dryers and keep our homes ventilated to prevent mould from building up.
- Why is it a risk?
Pheena Kenny, health promotion manager of the Asthma Society of Ireland, said: ‘Moist environments encourage the growth of mould which can release ‘seeds’ called spores.
‘The spores can cause allergic reactions in some people.
‘But for some people with asthma who are sensitive to mould spores, it can act as a trigger, causing asthma symptoms to get worse,’ RTE reported.
Aspergillus fumigatus is a fungus species that commonly causes lung problems. It grows throughout the year, but tends to peak during wetter months.
- Who is most affected?
Certain asthma patients are more likely to experience an attack due to environmental triggers.
These include young children, the elderly, people with a suppressed immune system, those with a severe form of asthma or people with skin problems, such as eczema.
- What can we do?
Ms Kenny recommends drying laundry outdoors if possible or in well-ventilated rooms away from living spaces, such as lounges.
Be aware that mould also readily grows in damp environments, such as kitchens and bathrooms, she adds.
Keeping rooms ventilated via open windows and extractor fans prevents mould from building up.
Humidifiers or air purifiers can also help to manage humidity.
Mould can be removed from hard surfaces by regularly cleaning with a mix of water, vinegar and soap.
This comes after researchers from Mount Sinai Hospital in New York revealed stressed pregnant women who are exposed to air pollution are more likely to have asthmatic children.
Boys whose mothers were exposed to both of these risk factors are more likely to develop the condition by age six, they found.