Mucor and Other Types of Fungi Identified by Leading IAQ Laboratory

Cinnaminson, NJ, January 22, 2013
 
Mucor is a type of fungus that is commonly found in soils, plant surfaces and rotten vegetable materials. Most species of Mucor do not infect humans; however, there are thermotolerant species that can cause opportunistic infections in humans.
 
There are two main types of fungal infections that people can get from Mucor.  They depend on the route of exposure. One form occurs by inhaling fungal spores from the environment.  Spores from the fungus can cause an infection to develop in the lungs, sinuses, eyes, and face, and in rare cases can spread to the central nervous system. The other form of infection is cutaneous.  This occurs when the fungus enters the skin through cuts, scrapes, puncture wounds, or other forms of trauma to the skin.
 
Mucor can be found at times in indoor environments, especially if there has been flooding or some other type of water damaging event. 
 
One company that has been at the forefront of identifying microbial contaminants in indoor environments is EMSL Analytical, Inc.  “Mucor, along with many other types of fungi, can cause not only destruction to personal property and even structural damage in water damaged properties, but it is also a health concern when found in elevated levels indoors,” reported Joe Frasca, Senior Vice President, Marketing at EMSL Analytical, Inc.  “Infections due to Mucor are more common among people with a weakened immune system, but they do on occasion occur in people who are otherwise appear healthy.  EMSL provides the testing equipment and laboratory services to identify Mucor and other microbial contaminants in people’s homes, offices and schools.”
 
EMSL has sponsored an educational video about Mucor and Mucormycosis that can be seen at:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DntLhHpdAuc
 
To learn more about testing for fungal contaminants or other environmental and health & safety issues, please visit www.EMSL.com, call (800) 220-3675 or email info@EMSL.com .
 
About EMSL Analytical, Inc.
EMSL Analytical is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider of environmental and materials testing services and products to professionals and the general public.  The company has an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies.

Contact Information

Joseph Frasca

Senior Vice President of Marketing

EMSL Analytical

(1) 1-800-220-3675

jfrasca@emsl.com