Disney's cherished It's A Small World ride, a fan-favourite indoor boat attraction celebrated for its 300 animated dolls promoting world peace, has sparked alarm among visitors due to potential mold exposure. Recent before-and-after footage from the Anaheim, California location has disgusted Disney enthusiasts, revealing a thick, black line that appeared to be mold scrubbed away from a display gondola.
Shocking Discovery on Classic Ride
In a video shared on X, formerly Twitter, user GreenCheetah99 showcased the Italian scene of the ride, noting how fresh and colorful the exhibit looked after cleaning. "They finally did it! Disney has cleaned the thick black line on this little gondola on It's A Small World," the user posted. However, viewers quickly responded with before images of the display caked in a dark substance, expressing deep concern over possible inhalation risks.
Fan Reactions and Health Implications
Regular visitors voiced their dismay, with one stating, "I noticed it every time I rode!" Another complained, "Just ruining our childhoods more and more," while someone else slammed, "Yep the magic is lost." The Daily Mail has reached out to Disney for comment, though the substance remains unconfirmed. Mold, a fungus that forms from airborne spores in high-humidity environments on water-damaged materials, can cause allergic reactions such as sneezing, coughing, congestion, and eye irritation.
Scale of Exposure and Global Presence
It is estimated that 3,300 people ride It's a Small World per hour, meaning thousands of guests may have encountered the grime. The attraction is featured at Disneyland Park in California, Magic Kingdom in Florida, Tokyo Disneyland, Disneyland Park in Paris, and Hong Kong Disneyland. Originally introduced at the 1964/1965 New York World's Fair, it has since been installed in Disney parks worldwide.
Broader Health Concerns at Disney Parks
Mold isn't the only health issue troubling the famous park. Last week, a second measles case was confirmed in connection with an exposure at California's Disney theme parks, just one week after health officials announced the first patient had been infected, exposing thousands to the deadly virus. A spokesman for the Orange County health department warned that people at these locations during specific times may be at risk of developing measles from 7 to 21 days after exposure, marking the third case in the region this year.
This incident adds to growing concerns over safety and maintenance at Disney attractions, as fans grapple with the potential health risks associated with one of the world's most beloved theme park rides.
