Untreated mold buildup in occupied facilities can lead to illness and death if not addressed promptly, as demonstrated by the recent series of adenovirus deaths.
The Devastating Effect of Mold Infestations
Recently, tragically, a mold infestation at the University of Maryland has led to the death of one 18-year-old student, with five others testing positive for the illness.
This is, sadly, the same strain that took the lives of several children at a New Jersey hospital only a few weeks ago.
According to Fox News;
A student at the University of Maryland has died after suffering from a strain of the Adenovirus, school health officials said.
Since then, five more students have been diagnosed with the Adenovirus.
On Monday, the health center learned that one of the specimens they sent to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) was confirmed to be type 7 of the illness.
The same strain of the Adenovirus was found to be at the center of a viral outbreak at a rehabilitation center in Wanaque, New Jersey, that has killed 11 children.
University of Maryland student dies from Adenovirus, 5 others sick, school says
The adenovirus is caused by Acinetobacter baumannii bacteria, commonly found in water or soil, and can cause pneumonia and worsening conditions, especially in immuno-compromised patients.
It also appears to spread rapidly, as several students had previously complained to the administration regarding mold found on their shoes and clothes.
According to CleanLink;
Some students said they found mold on their shoes and clothes in their dorm back in August — and believes the fungus caused them to fall ill.
After they repeatedly alerted university officials, about 500 students were moved to temporary housing while the school worked to clean the dorms.
University Focuses On Cleaning After Student Death Linked To Mold
Unfortunately, this tragedy underscores two pervasive challenges facing facilities managers and administrators responsible for cleaning and infection control--poor cleaning and sanitation practices, and a failure to take action on occupant complaints.
The Importance of Green Cleaning in Education Facilities
Green cleaning is a vital component of healthy and productive living, learning, and working environments.
According to a recent report--the 2018 National Education Facilities Cleaning Survey;
[...] cleaning programs are a critical part of school and university efforts to provide students and staff with the opportunity to learn and work in a place that is healthy and safe.
It specifically emphasizes why educational facilities implement green cleaning initiatives and the benefits that come from them.
Relevantly, according to Rochelle Davis, CEO of Healthy Schools Campaign;
We know that how schools approach cleaning says a lot about how they value their students, staff, and the communities where they are located
Green Cleaning Tips for Mold Removal and Prevention
Mold grows in dark, damp locations, emphasizing the need for regular facilities inspections, following up on occupant complaints quickly and competently, training cleaning staff to recognize the signs of mold buildup, and regular thorough cleaning programs to prevent mold from taking hold and spreading to areas where occupants can become ill.
Several natural remedies can be used in homes, or in a pinch, in dorms with unresponsive administration and custodial teams, including:
- Vinegar.
- Baking Soda.
- Hydrogen Peroxide, and;
- Tea Tree Oil Solutions.
Mix and spray the solution directly on the suspected mold and allow to sit for several hours, returning later to scrub away the remnants of the solution and mold.
Make sure to wear gloves and a mask to prevent exposure.
Using microfiber cloths/towels will increase the efficacy of the cleaning process, as well as capture more moisture than paper or cloth towels.
References & Resources
Takeaway
Mold infestations aren't just a nuisance.
If left untreated, the mold colonies can spread rapidly to areas that can negatively affect the health and safety of building occupants, especially those with weakened immune systems.
While it is entirely possible to treat and remove small infestations of mold, large colonies should be handled by trained and well-equipped professionals after a thorough inspection of the entire facility to ensure full removal, and that there is no danger of the mold spores entering the HVAC system and spreading even further.
If you would like to learn more about the benefits of green cleaning services and their role in mold prevention, or the advantages of outsourcing the sanitation and infection control needs for your facility--contact us today for a free quote!
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