Incidence of fungal spores at the homes of allergic patients in an agricultural community. I. A 12-month study in and out of doors.

A 12-month survey of the fungal spores in and out of homes of 145 allergic patients in an agricultural community was conducted. More than 6,100 colonies were recovered and 33 genera identified frm November, 1977, through October, 1978. Cladosporium was the most common genus identified and was recovered from 90% of the homes. Peak Cladosporium counts were observed during November through January, with another peak in March. Penicillium and Alternaria were recovered from 57% and 33% of the homes respectively. Relationships were observed between minimum daily temperature and indoor and outdoor Cladosporium and Mycelia sterilia counts. The relationship between sporulation of fungi and other environment factors is discussed.