Tag: Microbiology

Microbe of the month: Corynebacterium

Classification: BacteriaCultured from / Found in: HVAC Coils, Filters, Grilles and DiffusersAssociated Health Risks: Fever and Swelling of Nose and Throat, Pseudomembrane Diphtheria, Skin Lesions/Infections, Paralysis, Heart Failure Corynebacteria (from the Greek words koryne, meaning club, and bacterion, meaning little rod) are gram-positive, catalase-positive, aerobic or facultatively anaerobic, generally nonmotile rods. The genus contains the species […]

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Microbe of the month: Basidiomycota

Classification: FunghiCultured from / Found in: HVAC Coils and FiltersAssociated Health Risks: Type III hypersensitivity pneumonitis, Cryptococcal Meningitis, Allergic Alveolitis. About the FunghiBasidiospores develop into many sorts of commonly found mould. These moulds are identifiable by their MVOC (Microbial Volatile Organic Compounds) releases that have a unique musty and condensed smell. As small as 100-120 picometers […]

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Microbe of the month: Ulocladium

Classification: FunghiCultured from / Found in: HVAC Coils and FiltersAssociated Health Risks: Subcutaneous, Cutaneous, and Nail Infections. Allergy Exacerbation. About the FunghiUlocladium is an asexually reproducing saprophytic fungi, belonging to the family Pleosporaceae. These fungi mainly dissolve plant organic matter, and can often be found on substrates such as plant debris, lumber, paper, and water-damaged building […]

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Microbe of the Month: Stachybotrys chartarum

Microbe of the Month: Stachybotrys chartarumClassification Type: FungiCultured from / Found in HVAC: Coiling Coils, Diffusers, Grilles, Filters, Drain Pans, HumidifiersNoted Health Risks: Nasal Irritation, Burning and Congestion, Cough, Wheezing, Chest Tightness and DyspneaAbout Stachybotrys chartarumTwo black moulds commonly found in buildings are Cladosporium and Alternaria fungi. Another black mould is Stachybotrys chartarum, which can release specific toxins […]

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Safeguarding the Immunocompromised through Indoor Air Quality

The quality of indoor air influences immune responses. Components like mould spores, pollutants, allergens, and irritants in the air can affect immune cell function, which can lead to respiratory issues, allergies, and other health issues.Those with compromised immune systems are at greater risk from poor indoor air quality, as well as people over 65 years […]

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Animals vs. HVAC ~ Startling Discoveries and Health Risks

HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems are a significant part of modern buildings, providing temperature control and air circulation for human comfort. These systems can sometimes create unexpected situations, especially when animals inhabit these spaces.One interesting example is the case of bats. When bats encounter buildings with HVAC systems, their echolocation abilities can be […]

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Microbe of the Month: Cladosporium

Microbe of the Month: CladosporiumClassification Type: FungiCultured from / Found in HVAC: Coiling Coils, Diffusers, Grilles, Filters, Drain Pans, HumidifiersNoted Health Risks: Fungal Sinusitis, Asthma Attacks, Lung Infections, Chronic Migraines / Fatigue. About the Cladosporium FungiCladosporium is among the most widespread varieties of mould that can be found in HVAC Systems. Its presence is indicative of […]

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Microbe of the Month: Acremonium

Classification Type: FungiCultured from / found in HVAC: Coiling Coils, Diffusers, Grilles, Filters, Drain Pans, HumidifiersNoted Health Risks: Immune System Diseases, Nail Infection, Corneal Ulcers, Eye Infection, Heart Inflammation About the Acremonium FungiAcremonium is a common type of mould found in HVAC Systems. This type of mould has the appearance of white powder. It can […]

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Microbe of the Month: Aspergillus

This month’s Microbe has been guest-chosen by Shani from Aeris Environmental. Shani graduated with a Health Sciences Degree from the University of Central Florida in 2015 and currently works as an Air Quality Applied Scientist in Queensland.“Aspergillus spp. is a fungi that we often come across, due to HVAC-related moisture/condensation or poor hygiene maintenance.” SHANI […]

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