Is black mold causing my kids' coughing and headaches?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing non-stop and getting headaches for the past month, and I’m starting to panic. I’ve just pulled back the silicone sealant around our Deira apartment’s shower and found a ton of black mold growing underneath it. The bathroom has no window and the exhaust fan is weak. Could this mold be the reason they’re sick, and what’s the absolute fastest way to get rid of it properly?
Posted by Rashid Khoury
Asked on April 6, 2026 11:59 am
Based on your description, it is highly probable that the discovered black mold (likely Stachybotrys chartarum or Aspergillus niger) is a significant contributing factor to your children's persistent coughing and headaches. These symptoms are classic indicators of mold exposure, which can cause allergic reactions and respiratory irritation, particularly in children who are more vulnerable.

The conditions in your Deira apartment are a textbook case for severe mold proliferation. The combination of a windowless bathroom and an underperforming exhaust fan creates an environment with exceptionally high humidity. When combined with the constant condensation from hot showers and the year-round operation of AC systems common in Dubai, moisture becomes trapped. This moisture then penetrates behind wall surfaces and, crucially, underneath non-porous sealants like silicone, creating a hidden, saturated breeding ground that is perfect for toxic mold.

Attempting a DIY removal by simply scrubbing the visible surface is ineffective and hazardous. Disturbing the mold colony releases a massive amount of mycotoxins and spores into the air, potentially worsening your family's exposure. The remediation process requires professional intervention. Certified specialists, like our team at Saniservice, follow a strict protocol: we begin with containment of the area using negative air pressure to prevent cross-contamination, safely remove the compromised sealant and any affected underlying materials, and then employ industrial-grade HEPA filtration and antimicrobial agents to eradicate the mold at its source. Finally, we address the root cause by recommending solutions to improve ventilation, a critical step per UAE health and safety guidelines for residential buildings.

For the health of your family, I strongly recommend immediate professional inspection and remediation. Please contact us for a conclusive assessment and a swift, permanent solution. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 7, 2026 12:43 pm