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

My kids have been coughing non-stop since we got back from summer break, and I’ve just found patches of black mold behind the wardrobe in our master bedroom. It's on the wall that faces the outside of our villa in Mirdif, and the room always feels damp no matter how low I set the AC. Could this mold be the cause of their allergies and what’s the proper way to get it treated here to make sure it doesn't come back?
Posted by Yan Zhang
Asked on April 2, 2026 3:54 pm
Yes, the black mold you've discovered is a very likely cause of your children's persistent coughing. In my professional experience here in Dubai, this is a common scenario we see, especially after the summer break when villas have been closed up. The combination of the UAE's intense humidity and constant air conditioning creates a perfect environment for mold growth on cold surfaces, particularly on external walls where temperature differentials cause significant condensation. This is known as a thermal bridge.

The black mold is likely releasing mycotoxins and spores into your bedroom's air, which are potent respiratory irritants. Children are particularly susceptible, and continuous exposure can lead to symptoms precisely like chronic coughing, wheezing, and other allergic reactions. The damp feeling you describe confirms a persistent moisture issue that must be addressed.

Simply wiping the visible mold away is insufficient and can actually aerosolize the spores, worsening the problem. A professional inspection is critical. In Dubai, remediation must adhere to strict standards like the Dubai Municipality's Public Health & Safety guidelines. Our certified inspectors use tools like moisture meters and thermal imaging cameras to identify the exact extent of the infestation and the source of the moisture—whether it's a hidden leak, insufficient insulation on that external wall, or HVAC-related condensation.

The proper remediation process involves containment of the area, specialized HEPA filtration to purify the air, safe removal of contaminated materials, and the application of EPA-approved antimicrobial agents. Crucially, we then identify and rectify the root moisture cause to prevent recurrence, which is often related to the local climate and construction specifics.

For your family's health and a permanent solution, I strongly recommend a professional assessment. Please call our team at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. Saniservice is equipped to handle this safely and in full compliance with all UAE regulations.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 5, 2026 12:46 pm