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The Hidden Dangers After Water Damage
When a home or building suffers water damage, most people immediately think of mould. The musty smell, the discolouration on walls, or the fuzzy patches on ceilings make it an easy target. However, mould is often only part of the picture — and not always the main one.
In reality, bacteria and the toxins they release can be a much more powerful trigger for ongoing illness. These microbes thrive in damp areas left behind after leaks, flooding, or plumbing failures — and their effects on health can last long after the visible mould is removed.
Common Health Symptoms Linked to Bacterial Growth
Many people experience symptoms they assume come from “mould exposure,” such as:
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Coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath
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Persistent sinus issues or a runny, blocked nose
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Skin irritation, rashes, or itching
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Headaches, mental fog, fatigue, and low mood
What’s often overlooked is that bacteria release substances called endotoxins and exotoxins that can trigger these same symptoms — sometimes even more severely than mould spores. In some cases, these toxins continue to circulate in the air or HVAC system long after the building appears clean.
Where Harmful Bacteria Hide
After water damage, bacterial colonies quickly grow in places that stay damp but may not be visible, such as:
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Wall cavities and insulation
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Carpets, underlay, or timber flooring
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Behind cupboards, furniture, or plasterboard
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HVAC ducts and internal air filters
The familiar “musty” odour isn’t always just from mould. It can also come from gases released by bacteria breaking down organic materials.
Why Regular Cleaning Isn’t Enough
Using vinegar, bleach, or other household cleaners may remove visible mould but won’t neutralize bacterial toxins. In some cases, harsh cleaning can make things worse by spreading particles or creating more moisture.
A proper remediation process treats all microbial contamination — mould, bacteria, and the toxins they leave behind. This means:
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Removing or drying all affected materials
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Testing for bacterial and fungal growth
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Filtering indoor air with HEPA systems
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Applying professional antimicrobial treatments
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Using the correct PPE to prevent exposure
Testing and Professional Assessment
If you’re still feeling unwell or noticing musty smells after a clean-up, it’s worth testing your environment for hidden microbial contamination. Professional testing can identify bacterial toxins, hidden moisture, and problem areas within walls and air systems.
A trained inspector can then design a remediation plan that restores both the building — and your peace of mind.
Find Out What’s Really Causing Your Symptoms
If you’ve experienced ongoing health issues, fatigue, or persistent odours after water damage, Mycotox can help. Our team specialises in identifying bacterial and fungal toxins that standard mould testing often misses.
We provide professional diagnostics and remediation plans tailored to your property and health situation.
Request a Health & Environment Assessment
Fill in the form below to connect with our team:
Name: __________________________
Email: __________________________
Phone: __________________________
Postcode: _______________________
Type of Property: ☐ Residential ☐ Commercial
Recent Water Damage: ☐ Yes ☐ No
Describe your concerns: _______________________________________
Preferred Contact Method: ☐ Email ☐ Phone[ Request an Assessment ]
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