Anish Vij
Now that the snow finally looks like it's heading out, there might be another winter-related issue that needs addressing.
I don't think many of us are enjoying the cold weather at the moment, as the UK has faced -10C in some places over the past week. With flu cases also on the rise, I think we're all looking forward to seeing the back of January.
But during these winter months, the issue of household mould is something that should be looked at.
Mould is often fuzzy with black, white, or green patches, and comes with a musty smell.
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There are approximately two million people in England living with it in their homes, and it can quickly exacerbate in the cold weather.
Respiratory illnesses, allergies, and asthma are just some of the symptoms that can arise, but in more serious cases, mould in homes can lead to death.
Because the microscopic fungus grows in damp places, it releases dangerous spores into the atmosphere.
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Try taking shorter showers and ensuring your bathroom extractor fan is switched on during and after your shower to stop the steam from your shower turning into condensation.
It's also recommended that you open your windows when cooking or drying washing indoors, as this can help let the moisture in the air escape, recommends the NHS.
If cooking, make sure your hob's extractor fan is on a high setting and wipe down surfaces to stop moisture from pooling on windowsills and walls.
Also don't forget to check for leaky pipes or gutters that can make problems worse.
You may need to get a professional to remove mould for you, but if it’s only a small amount, you may be able to remove it yourself.
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Just remember to wear gloves and a face mask if you’re removing mould.
Black mould can trigger asthma attacks and cause allergic reactions such as skin rashes, a runny nose, and red eyes. Those with compromised immune systems, such as babies and the elderly, are more at risk to the symptoms.
The most common cause of mould in UK homes is condensation; often found in spaces of the home where there's high moisture levels like bathrooms, kitchens and on and around windows.
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If condensation is left to sit, the surface can become damp and create the breeding conditions needed for mould to grow.
Daily tasks such as cooking and drying washing indoors can also exacerbate the problem.
Additional words by Harley Young.