Could this mold be causing my kids' cough?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing for the past two weeks and we can't figure out why. I just pulled out some winter clothes from the storage room in our Jumeirah villa and found a bunch of them covered in black spots. The room has felt damp ever since the heavy dew started last month. Could this mold be the reason for their persistent coughs?
Posted by Omar Khoury
Asked on March 19, 2026 5:34 pm
Based on the symptoms and your description of the environment, it is highly probable that the mold discovered in your Jumeirah villa is the cause of your children's persistent cough. The black spots on the clothing are a significant indicator of a mold colony, and the damp, musty conditions you describe provide the perfect habitat for microbial growth.

The cough is a classic symptom of mold exposure, which acts as an irritant to the respiratory system. In children, whose immune systems are still developing, this reaction can be more pronounced and persistent. The climate in Dubai, particularly following periods of high humidity and heavy dew, creates intense condensation within buildings. When combined with year-round air conditioning, which can cause significant temperature differentials between rooms, the resulting condensation provides the constant moisture mold requires to thrive, especially in less-ventilated areas like storage rooms.

The UAE's regulatory framework, such as the Dubai Municipality's public health and safety codes, emphasizes the importance of maintaining indoor environments free from such biological contaminants due to their documented health risks. Self-cleaning the affected items is not recommended, as disturbing the mold without proper containment and PPE can aerosolize the spores, significantly increasing airborne concentrations and exacerbating the health issue.

For a definitive diagnosis of the problem and to ensure it is remediated safely, a professional inspection is essential. Our certified technicians at Saniservice use specialized equipment like thermal imaging cameras and borescopes to identify the full extent of the moisture intrusion and mold colonization, which is often hidden within wall cavities or under flooring. We then execute a controlled remediation process following IICRC standards. Please contact us for a comprehensive assessment at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or hello@saniservice.com.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 20, 2026 10:12 pm