Dangerous Fungus Found in Maui Building

by Gary T. Kubota

Star-Bulletin WAILUKU

An "active fertile colony" of fungus known to cause respiratory problems and death in some instances has been discovered in the Maui County building that was evacuated in February.

The colony of "stachybotrys sp." was found on the surface of a water-stained ceiling tile near lockers in the electrical area of the Kalana Pukui Building.

Some 80 planning and public works employees were evacuated from the building on Feb. 20 after several complained of eye irritation. One person said he had respiratory problems.

Earlier this month, state health inspectors concluded that the eye irritation may have been caused by fumes from new paint in the air duct.

County spokeswoman Karlynn Kawahara said the fungus, which has been removed, was found on the surface and did not turn up in air samples.

She said the fungus could be harmful, especially if inhaled by the elderly, the young or those with auto-immune problems.

Kawahara said that according to information provided to the county, horses have died after eating hay containing the fungus. During an inspection yesterday, she said, mold was found on the ceiling of the planning director's office and in the geographical information systems room. She said a consultant will determine the contents of the mold before a method of approval is implemented.

She said the test for the mold will probably take about 10 days and push back reopening the building.