What is Mold?

Mold can appear in many different color varieties. It is typically associated with decay or moisture. Mold spores are all around us both indoors and outdoors. These tiny spores travel very efficiently through the air and can grow very well in moist places. 

Health Effects

In Wisconsin, black mold has not been found to be a human health hazard. Meaning that through inhalation, black mold has not been found to kill or significantly harm someone/put their life in danger. 

There is no scientific evidence showing that exposure to mold or “Toxic Mold” actually causes a toxic effect on humans. According to the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, the majority of human exposures to mold toxins have occurred from ingesting moldy food. Some occupations, such as farming and working in greenhouses, where high levels of mold can be encountered, present a risk for workers.

Mold is considered to be an allergen. It affects each person differently causing symptoms ranging from difficulties breathing, stuffy nose, sore throat, coughing, burning eyes, to no symptoms at all. 

For more information on the effects of mold in humans see CDC and DHS website.

Reduction of Mold

Generally there is no need to test for mold. If you can see or smell mold that is usually enough to identify it. 

The key to reduction of mold is ELIMINATING MOISTURE. Mold will continue to grow and come back if moisture is not eliminated or significantly reduced. This could be from leaky roofs or pipes, damp basements, or high humidity indoor areas without ventilation, or other issues with the home or rental. 

Once the moisture problem has been repaired, mold can be cleaned with a simple bleach solution. For the full instruction on mold clean up see Cleaning Mold In Your Home (DHS).

If you are a renter in an apartment with mold please see Tenant Landlord Issues Involving Mold (DHS). You can also place a complaint with the Department of Agriculture Trade and Consumer Protections. 

Resources

Mold and Flooding

Mold Pamphlet

Mold and Moisture flyer

File a Complaint (Wisconsin DATCP)

Environmental Protection Agency Molds and Moisture Webpage

Wisconsin Department of Health Services Mold Webpage

Wisconsin Department of Health Services Flood Hazard and Recovery

Questions and Resources

Do you have questions about our Environmental Health Program in Sheboygan County? 
Contact us at (920) 459-3207 or email at environmental.health@sheboygancounty.com.

3/13/2025

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