Opinion | Indoor mould is a public health issue requiring attention
Summary
Indoor mould is emerging as a serious public health risk in Nepal, especially during the monsoon when damp homes and poor ventilation allow fungal growth to spread. The article calls for stronger housing codes, public education and legal protections to reduce chronic exposure and related respiratory illness.
Key Points
- Monsoon humidity and poor ventilation are driving widespread indoor mould growth in Nepali homes, especially in older and low-income housing.
- The article links chronic mould exposure to respiratory illness, asthma, allergies and other health risks, with children and the elderly especially vulnerable.
- Current Nepal building codes and housing laws are described as inadequate because they do not sufficiently address damp-proofing and indoor air quality.
- The piece urges policy reform, better ventilation standards and stronger legal protections for tenants and homeowners.
