Black mold in kids' room: who to call and health risk?« Back to Previous Page

The black patch is likely Cladosporium or Aspergillus, common in Dubai due to high humidity and condensation from AC units. These types can cause the exact respiratory symptoms you're describing in children, especially if the exposure is in a confined space like a closet. The recent humid weather accelerates growth.

For safe removal, you need a certified mold remediation specialist, not a general handyman. Look for a company that holds a DHA (Dubai Health Authority) permit for this type of environmental health work. The critical factor is their process: they should isolate the area with plastic sheeting, use HEPA-filtered air scrubbers to contain spores, and remove the contaminated material (e.g., cut out and replace the affected drywall or plaster). A reputable provider will be able to explain this containment protocol clearly.

Do not attempt to bleach or scrub it yourself, as this can aerosolize the spores and spread them throughout the room, potentially worsening your children's symptoms.

The only way to confirm a health link is through a separate, independent inspection that includes air quality testing. This involves taking air samples from the room and a control area outside, then having the samples analyzed in a microbiology lab to identify the species and spore count. This data provides a concrete basis to discuss with your pediatrician. For your twins' current symptoms, a consultation with a doctor is advisable to rule out other common causes.