asthma and allergies

Numerous sources have evaluated suspected allergic reactions to mold.

"A major concern associated with exposure to biological pollutants is allergic reactions, which range from rhinitis, nasal congestion, conjunctival inflammation, and urticaria to asthma. Notable triggers for these diseases are allergens derived from house dust mites; other arthropods, including cockroaches; pets (cats, dogs, birds, rodents); molds; and protein-containing furnishings, including feathers, kapok, etc. In occupational settings, more unusual allergens (e.g., bacterial enzymes, algae) have caused asthma epidemics. Probably most proteins of non-human origin can cause asthma in a subset of any appropriately exposed population.“
Indoor Air Pollution: An Introduction for Health Professionals section on: Animal Dander, Molds, Dust Mites, Other Biologicals. 

According to the EPA, in addition to causing allergic reactions, molds can trigger asthma episodes in sensitive individuals with asthma.  People with asthma should avoid contact with or exposure to molds. Fungi and fungal particles can clearly induce an allergic response in susceptible individuals. Typical symptoms are wheezing, cough, rhinorrhea, itchy nose, sore throat, sinus congestion, and so forth.. Dead fungi are able to produce symptoms just as well as live fungi [1973]. Thus, elimination of this form of reaction to requires reduction in the amount of fungi in the environment, not just disinfection of the environment.* 
*Anonymous. 2002. Adverse human health effects associated with molds in the indoor environment. American College of Occupational and Environmental Medicine (www.acoem.org), Arlington Heights,IL.

In its 2000 report “Clearing the Air: Asthma and Indoor Air Exposures,” IOM (Institute of Medicine) concluded that there is sufficient evidence of an association between exposure to mold and exacerbations of asthma. The IOM also stated that there was inadequate evidence that molds caused people to become asthmatic. We do not know whether molds cause other adverse health effects, such as pulmonary hemorrhage, memory loss, or lethargy. We also do not know if the occurrence of mold- related illnesses is increasing.

However, keep in mind, Fungi are not the only causes of these syndromes. Bacterial, avian (bird) products, and other allergens can produce similar syndromes [1973]. Thus, before one blames a fungus for that sneeze or wheeze, the entire environment should be considered and evaluated. One of the best references in this regard is the EPA's The Inside Story: A Guide to Indoor Air Quality.If concerns persist, consult a medical professional.

Additional Resources Recommended by the EPA on Asthma and Mold

Allergy & Asthma Network/Mothers of Asthmatics (AAN/MA): (800) 878-4403; www.aanma.org                        
American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI): www.aaaai.org                        
American Lung Association: 1-800-LUNG-USA (1-800-586-4872); www.lungusa.org                        
Asthma & Allergy Foundation of America: (800) 7ASTHMA; www.aafa.org                        
Canada Mortgage & Housing Corporation fact sheets on mold - www.cmhc-schl.gc.ca/en/burema/gesein/abhose/abhose_50.cfm                   
National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases: www.niaid.nih.gov                        
National Jewish Medical and Research Center: (800) 222-LUNG (5864); www.njc.org