Aspergillosis is caught by breathing in small spores of aspergillus mould.
Most people’s immune systems will quickly isolate and destroy the mould before it has a chance to spread into their lungs. However, if a person has a weakened immune system or damaged lungs, the infection is more likely to stay.
Aspergillosis is not contagious so it cannot be passed between people or animals.
Aspergillus mould
The aspergillus mould that causes aspergillosis is found in all countries and many different environments. Therefore, it can be difficult to avoid.
Aspergillus mould can be found in:
- rotting leaves
- compost
- plants
- trees
- crops
The mould can also grow inside buildings and is found in:
- air conditioning systems
- heating systems
- insulation material
- carpets
- dust
- household plants
- ground pepper and spices
There have been cases of aspergillus mould growing inside computers.
You may be advised to take extra precautions, such as using a face mask or taking antifungal medication, if you have damaged lungs or a weakened immune system. This might be because you are having chemotherapy, or taking immunosuppressant medication or high doses of corticosteroids
Read more information about how to prevent aspergillosis.
