What are the health effects of mould, and how do you get rid of it?

In flood-affected areas, mould is often a nasty surprise in the wake of widespread damage. (Getty Images: Paul Taylor)

After months of heavy rainfall and increased humidity along Australia's east coast, many people are now dealing with an unwelcome and often stubborn house guest: mould.

A type of fungus, mould is present almost everywhere. It lives on plant and animal matter and plays an important role in our ecosystem.