Could dust storm particles cause my son's symptoms?« Back to Previous Page

After the recent dust storm that hit Dubai, my son has been having a persistent cough and runny nose. The symptoms started a week ago when we returned home from school on a particularly windy day, and ever since then, he’s been sneezing non-stop, especially in the early mornings. We’ve checked our air purifier, but it seems to be doing its job; however, I’m still worried about what might be causing these symptoms. Could this be due to dust particles or is there something else we should consider?
Posted by Emily Wilson
Asked on January 11, 2026 2:31 am
Dust storms can indeed cause respiratory issues like coughing and sneezing. In the UAE specifically, dust particles often contain a mix of sand, soil, pollen, and other irritants that can exacerbate symptoms especially for individuals who are sensitive to such allergens.

In your case, it's plausible that the recent dust storm could be contributing to your son's persistent cough and runny nose. Dust storms in Dubai frequently carry high concentrations of particulate matter (PM) which can irritate the nasal passages, throat, and lungs, leading to symptoms like those you've described.

However, given the persistence of his symptoms post-storm, it might be wise to conduct a thorough indoor air quality assessment. The UAE has strict environmental regulations that aim to ensure air quality standards are met in residential areas, but ongoing monitoring can help identify any lingering dust or other irritants.

A professional inspection by an accredited environmental company could reveal whether there's still a significant amount of particulate matter indoors due to the storm. Such inspections typically involve using specialized equipment to measure PM levels and identifying potential sources of contamination.

In addition to professional testing, here are some practical tips you can follow:
• Regularly clean your home with HEPA filters to trap particles
• Use air purifiers that have a high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter
• Keep windows closed during periods of high dust activity
• Encourage frequent hand washing and nasal cleaning for your family members

Given the ongoing concern, if symptoms persist or worsen, consulting with a healthcare professional is advisable to rule out other potential causes. For further assistance or detailed guidance on indoor air quality in Dubai, you may consider reaching out to companies like Saniservice through their contact details: 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.

Remember that while dust storms are a common occurrence in the UAE, maintaining good indoor air quality can significantly reduce health impacts.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 12, 2026 3:04 pm