Is hidden mold causing my kids' constant cough?« Back to Previous Page

Yes, hidden mold is very likely the cause of your children's persistent cough, especially given the dampness in your Deira building. The constant cold-like symptoms—coughing, congestion, sneezing—are classic reactions to mold spore inhalation. Children are particularly susceptible as their respiratory systems are still developing.

The damp feeling despite AC use points to a chronic humidity issue, common in older Dubai buildings where insulation can be poor. The AC might cool the air but not adequately remove moisture, leading to condensation on cooler walls, especially behind furniture. This creates the perfect environment for mold to thrive unseen.

For a patch you describe as "huge," professional remediation is strongly advised. Disturbing it yourself can release a massive cloud of spores throughout your home, potentially worsening the situation. Professionals use containment barriers, HEPA filtration, and specialized antimicrobials to remove it safely.

Before any remediation, a professional inspection with air and surface sampling is crucial. This identifies the mold species and spore concentration levels, which determines the correct removal protocol and provides a baseline to verify the cleanup was successful. In Dubai, look for providers who follow standards like the IICRC S520 and can provide a certificate of remediation.

After removal, the underlying moisture problem must be fixed. This often requires a dehumidifier in conjunction with your AC and possibly improving room ventilation. Without solving the dampness, the mold will almost certainly return.