Is black mold causing my kids' persistent cough?« Back to Previous Page
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My kids have been coughing for a couple of weeks and I’m worried it’s because of the black spots I just found behind our bedroom wardrobe. We’ve lived here for 2 years and just noticed it while rearranging the room. Is this something I can clean myself with bleach, or do I need to call a professional mold inspection company here in Dubai?
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Good afternoon. That is a very concerning situation, and it's smart to be connecting your children's health to a potential environmental cause. From your description, a professional mold inspection is highly recommended, and here’s why.
The black spots you’ve discovered behind the wardrobe are a classic sign of a mold colony, likely fuelled by trapped moisture from Dubai's high humidity, possibly from a small, unnoticed condensation issue or a past leak. While not all black mold is the infamous Stachybotrys chartarum, many species can produce mycotoxins and allergens that cause respiratory irritation, persistent coughing, and other health issues, especially in children. Using bleach is a common but flawed DIY approach. It may remove the surface discoloration but often fails to address the root moisture problem or the hyphae (root system) growing into porous materials like drywall or plaster. This means the mold will almost certainly return. Furthermore, improper cleaning can aerosolize spores, spreading the contamination throughout your bedroom and potentially worsening your kids' symptoms. In the UAE, proper remediation follows strict IICRC guidelines. A certified inspector will conduct a thorough assessment, including moisture mapping and likely air quality testing, to identify the species and the full extent of the problem. This is crucial for determining the correct remediation protocol. For a situation involving health symptoms and hidden growth, professional intervention is the safest and most effective course of action. Please do not disturb the area. For a proper assessment and to discuss your concerns, I strongly advise you to call our team for a consultation at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. Let's identify the source and get your family breathing easily again. |
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