Could this bedroom mold cause my child's cough?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in our apartment in Jumeirah Village Circle has been leaking a bit and now we’ve found black spots along the wall behind the bedroom wardrobe. My youngest has had a runny nose and a weird cough for over a month that just won't go away, and I'm starting to panic it's connected. **Could this type of mold be the cause of his persistent respiratory symptoms, and what’s the first step I should take here to get it properly tested?**
Posted by Anthony Allen
Asked on March 29, 2026 3:33 pm
Based on your description, it is highly plausible that the mold growth from the AC leak is contributing to your child's persistent respiratory symptoms. The black spots are likely Stachybotrys chartarum (often called "black mold") or Aspergillus niger, both of which are common in Dubai due to the high humidity and condensation issues associated with year-round AC use. These molds produce mycotoxins and spores that are potent irritants and allergens, particularly for children, whose immune systems are still developing. Symptoms like a chronic runny nose, cough, and nasal congestion are classic indicators of mold exposure.

The first and most critical step is to immediately stop the moisture source. Have an HVAC technician repair the leaking AC unit. Do not attempt to clean the mold yourself, especially with bleach, as this can aerosolize the spores and exacerbate the problem. Disturbing the mold can cause a significant release of harmful particles into your bedroom's air, which you and your child will continue to breathe.

For proper testing and identification, a professional inspection is mandatory. In the UAE, this involves a certified mold assessor who will conduct air quality sampling and surface swabs to identify the species and concentration of mold spores. This scientific analysis is crucial for determining the exact health risk and for planning an effective remediation strategy, which is required by Dubai Municipality guidelines for occupant safety.

I strongly recommend you contact a professional service like Saniservice. Their certified experts can perform a comprehensive inspection, provide a detailed report, and execute the necessary remediation protocol to make your home safe again. You can reach them for an immediate consultation at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or via email at hello@saniservice.com. Your child's health is not something to gamble with.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 31, 2026 7:55 am