Mold is just one of the dangers that can arise in an overly damp or humid environment. If your home is too damp and humid due to leaks, a flood, or for any reason whatsoever, mold and the associated toxins could cause a problem.

Damp and water prone buildings are also the perfect breeding ground for all sorts of bacteria. Some of the bacteria is harmful, and such as with the mold, some resulting illnesses can be more dangerous to those with compromised immune systems.

The bacterium Legionella Pneumophilia can be quite hazardous and it is associated with Legionnaires’ disease. Legionnaires’ is a very serious, life threatening problem. Symptoms develop two to 14 days after exposure to the bacteria, and usually start with headaches, muscle pains, chills, and fever. These are followed by symptoms that include coughing, shortness of breath, fatigue, and chest pains.

Legionnaires’ and it’s less severe form, Pontiac Fever, can be cured by antibiotics but can be fatal if untreated. Older adults and those with weakened immune systems including smokers are the most susceptible.

Legionella bacteria can live and multiply anywhere that water accumulates and is stagnant. Places in your home where you could most likely find this dangerous bacterium would be around leaky pipes and in spaces under your home such as your basement or crawl space.

While mold can be difficult to detect, it is far more difficult to know whether or not you have a problem with bacteria. Bacteria is not visible with the naked eye and the sort of problem caused by an overly damp area or a leak cannot be remedied simply through the use of antibacterial products. The best way to avoid these potential dangerous bacteria is to clean up and dry out any flood waters or leaky pipes as soon as you detect a problem and have the underlying problem fixed.