Could this mould be causing my son's cough?« Back to Previous Page

Yes, absolutely. The black mould you've discovered is a very likely culprit for your son's persistent respiratory symptoms. In the UAE's climate, especially in older villas in coastal areas like Jumeirah, this is a common issue we investigate.

The constant high humidity, combined with potential thermal bridging in external walls (where the wardrobe is often placed), creates a perfect environment for mould growth, particularly Aspergillus and Stachybotrys (black mould) species. These fungi release microscopic spores and mycotoxins into the air. When inhaled, they are potent irritants and allergens, directly causing symptoms like a chronic runny nose (rhinitis), persistent cough, throat irritation, and wheezing—especially in children whose immune systems are still developing.

It is critical you do not attempt to remove this yourself with bleach or simple cleaning. Disturbing the colony without proper containment will aerosolize a massive amount of spores, potentially worsening your son's symptoms and contaminating other areas of the home. Improper remediation can also violate Dubai Municipality's public health and safety guidelines.

You need a professional indoor environmental quality inspection. A certified company will conduct air and surface sampling to identify the mould species and spore concentration, assess the moisture source (often a hidden plumbing leak or insulation failure), and provide a detailed remediation protocol. This is not just about cleaning; it's about solving the underlying moisture problem to prevent recurrence.

For proper testing and certified, safe removal, you should call a specialist. I recommend contacting our team at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or emailing hello@saniservice.com for an immediate assessment. We can determine the extent of the issue and ensure it's resolved in line with UAE standards, making your home safe for your family again.