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Aspergillus

What is it?
  • Aspergillus are common fungi of which there are many different species such as Aspergillus niger (the black mould found in damp places such as the corner of a bath).
  • It rarely causes infections but exposure to spores and chemicals it releases into the air can trigger respiratory problems in susceptible people.
How does it spread?
  • Aspergillus fungi can be found in large numbers in damp places and on organic waste (such as food or plant waste) in bins and compost heaps for example.
  • Aspergillus spores are released into the air from the colony of fungus and can be inhaled into the lungs.
  • It can be transferred via hands, surfaces and other objects to form new colonies in damp places
Who is at risk?
At risk
  • Healthy people are very rarely affected by the germ.
  • Some people who have respiratory illness (e.g asthmatics) experience heightened symptoms when exposed to the germ.
  • Some people exposed to high levels of spores can become allergic to Aspergillus.
  • Those who are unwell, including transplant patients or those undergoing cancer treatment, can become infected by Aspergillus.
Symptoms
  • Exacerbation of respiratory symptoms such as asthma.
  • If infection occurs, fungi can grow inside the lungs or sinuses for example causing chronic coughs and fatigue, blocked nose and headaches.
  • In rare cases, infection of the particularly vulnerable people can progress to invade other organs through the bloodstream such as the heart and brain, and can be fatal.

  • Prevent the spread

  • Where mould is visible remove using a bleach-based cleaner.
  • If large growths of fungi return look to eliminate the source of dampness that allows them to grow.
  • Don't store food waste or other rotting organic waste such as plants on which Aspergillus can grow, indoors for long periods.
  • Wrap organic waste (such as food or plant waste) before disposal into outdoor bins and bags and avoid disturbing it in a way that may release large numbers of spores into the air.
  • Domestos Spray BleachKeep kitchen and outdoor bins clean using a bleach-based cleaning spray.
  • People with respiratory illness, asthma etc, and anyone who is severely immunocompromised, should try to avoid places with significant visible mould and rotting waste.