Is black mold making my coughing kids sick?« Back to Previous Page

The black mould you found is likely contributing to their coughing, especially if they're sensitive or have allergies. Many species appear black, and while not all are the infamous "toxic black mould" (Stachybotrys), any mould can irritate airways and worsen respiratory symptoms like persistent coughing, particularly in children.

Given Dubai's high humidity, mould behind furniture on interior walls is common — it's a spot where condensation builds up with little air circulation from the AC. The recent humid weather would have created the perfect damp environment for it to flourish.

They should not sleep in that room tonight. Move them to a well-ventilated space and keep the door to the contaminated room closed. Do not attempt to clean it yourself with bleach, as disturbing it will release more spores into the air and could make their symptoms worse.

You need a professional assessment. The remediation urgency is high due to the health symptoms. A certified inspector can identify the mould species to determine the specific risk and locate the moisture source, which is critical to preventing its return. In the UAE, proper remediation involves containment of the area, HEPA filtration to capture spores, and removal of contaminated materials, followed by verification through post-remediation testing. This is the only way to ensure the environment is safe for your children again.