Aspergillosis

Preventing aspergillosis 

Avoid exposure to the aspergillus fungus

The main way to prevent aspergillosis is to avoid exposure to the aspergillus fungus.

If you have asthma, a suppressed immune system or a history of lung disease, you should avoid places where the aspergillus fungus is likely to be, such as:

  • marshland and bogs,
  • forests,
  • compost heaps,
  • grain stores,
  • rotting vegetation, and
  • piles of dead leaves.

The harmful effects of the fungus in buildings can be reduced by ensuring that there is good ventilation (for example, open windows) and dust control. This is particularly important if construction or renovation work is being carried out.

Keeping the room disinfected, maintaining room temperature and ensuring adequate air flow are all useful ways of preventing an aspergillosis infection.

  • show glossary terms

Glossary

Immune system
The immune system is the body's defence system, which helps protect it from disease, bacteria and viruses.
Lung
Lungs are a pair of organs in the chest that control breathing. They remove carbon dioxide from the blood and replace it with oxygen.

Last reviewed: 01/09/2009

Next review due: 01/09/2011

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