FC‐32 Identification of airbourne moulds in stables over a 2‐year period

Abstract

Fungal moulds are well recognised as a trigger for allergic disease in people. Good correlation is recognized between rising levels of airbourne moulds and allergic reactions to these moulds. This study was designed to evaluate the levels and types of airbourne moulds in different stable types over a 2‐year period. Four stables were chosen within an equine hospital environment. Shavings were used as bedding in all stables throughout the period. The stables were selected as four different constructions with different outlooks and different ventilation, although they were all within the same establishment. Each month throughout the investigation period, a Sabouraud's medium petri dish was mounted vertically on the wall of each stable at a height of 1.5 m and left uncovered for 30 min. The temperature and general weather conditions were recorded. The dish was submitted to the laboratory for culture. A variety of different moulds were identified. These included Penicillium spp., Alternaria spp., Aspergillus spp., Mucor spp. and Candida spp. The different stable constructions grew different numbers of moulds, but the same type on each occasion. Cold icy weather tended to favour growth of Penicillium spp. Aspergillus spp. was identified most commonly when conditions were cold and damp in the autumn. Mould growth was sparse in the spring, but tended to rise in mid‐summer and into the autumn. Funding: Self‐funded.