Aspergillus
This very common genus includes over 185 species, of which 20 have been recorded as contributing to opportunistic human infections. Aspergillus naturally occurs in the outdoor environment in soil, on plants, and in decaying organic material. However, it can be found in household dust and building materials as well. It is especially common in water-damaged areas and is the second most common opportunistic pathogen.
Some aspergillus can produce mycotoxins and can have carcinogenic potential if ingested by humans. Aspergillosis is a disease caused by the Aspergillus fungi, which can affect any healthy human being but is prevalent in people with asthma, cystic fibrosis, or suppressed immune systems. Aspergillosis may be a byproduct and precursor to allergic reactions and lung infections. Symptoms of Allergic Bronchopulmonary Aspergillosis include wheezing, coughing, fever, chest pain and shortness of breath. When invasive, it can spread outside the lungs and cause symptoms in nearly every organ. Invasive aspergillosis can affect people during building renovation or construction but cannot be spread from person to person or between people and animals. Let MVP safeguard you from any of the nasty things mentioned above, give us a call today.