ABSTRACT
Toxigenic microbes are those that produce fungal mycotoxins and bacterial endotoxins. Symptoms of high airborne exposures to toxigenic microbes resemble those of the flu. Yet, it is generally difficult to differentiate flu-like symptoms caused by viruses, allergies, and/or toxigenic microbes.
Airborne fungal and bacterial toxins are difficult to assess, to culture, and to interpret. An understanding of toxigenic microbes—their source(s) and indicators as to their probable impact on indoor air quality—goes a long way to suggesting the likelihood of airborne toxigenic microbes. Once probability is ascertained, seek the direction and guidance from an experienced microbiological laboratory.
