Background Recent epidemiological studies suggest that the adverse respirat
ory health effects caused by the inhalation of fungal propagules are substa
ntial. Knowledge of the prevalence and environmental determinants of indoor
fungal levels is essential in designing effective avoidance measures.
Aim To investigate the prevalence of fungi and the influence of residential
characteristics on levels of fungi within homes in Melbourne, Australia.
Methods Floor dust and air samples were collected from bedrooms in 485 hous
es over 1 year. The dust was analysed for ergosterol, a marker of cumulativ
e fungal biomass exposure. Total and genera-specific fungal propagules were
identified in air samples. Details of the relevant residential characteris
tics were documented using a questionnaire. Independent predictors (P < 0.0
5) of ergosterol and total fungal propagules were identified by multiple li
near regression.
Results Fifty-five percent of the houses had viable fungal propagules excee
ding 500 CFU/m(3). Cladosporium and Penicillium were identified as the most
prevalent and abundant fungal genera in indoor air. The median ergosterol
level in bedroom floor was 3.8 mu g/g of dust. Multivariate analysis showed
that total fungal propagules in indoor air were lower in bedrooms with a c
eiling fan, without visible mould, and those that were more frequently vacu
umed, had a solid fuel fire, had windows closed at the time of the sampling
or lacked pets. The presence of more than one cat had the greatest effect
on total fungal propagules. Ergosterol levels were significantly lower in h
omes without old fitted carpets, visible mould or pets and those with frequ
ent airing and regular use of an extractor fan in the kitchen. Old wall-to-
wall carpets had the greatest effect on ergosterol.
Conclusions High indoor fungal exposures were associated with infrequent ve
ntilation or vacuuming, presence of pets, visible mould and old carpets.