Water leaks: Get them repaired and dried out as quickly as possible. Prevention of leaks is much cheaper in the long run. Look under sinks for dampness. Look behind every appliance that uses water (water softener, dishwasher, washer/dryer, etc.). Clean roof and gutters at least once a year.

Food sources: Get rid of old wood, papers, leaves, and carpet - especially if they have ever been wet. Wood, tile, or decorative concrete is easier to maintain than carpet. Keep refrigerator clean and check the drip pan.

AC Filters: We recommend that allergy patients use 3M Ultra Allergen Filtrete 1250 filters. They are very good at removing mold, hair, dander, dust mites, and other particulates from the air. They are so effective that they will “whistle” when they are becoming filled. At first, you may have to change the filter more often than the once a month interval recommended by the manufac-turer. They are expensive – but cheaper than being sick and having to go to a doctor. If I find a filter better than these, I will recommend them. This is not a paid advertisement. We use them because they work. Get your air conditioner cleaned and inspected at least once a year. Getting your ducts cleaned is not as good as having them replaced.

Dealing with mold requires eliminating humidity, darkness, and its food source. Chemicals can be used to kill it, but since mold spores are in the air, it soon returns. Not every mold is harmful. Some are. Of particular interest is the black mold Stachybotrys, which has been linked to illness and even death in susceptible individuals, causing home abandonment and even school closures. Luckily, this mold is relatively rare if precautions are taken in our buildings.

Killing mold and preventing its growth are worthwhile – a person cannot become allergic to something to which they are never exposed. This is the reason that I have never found anyone allergic to rutabagas. When was the last time you overindulged in rutabagas?