Is my toddler's illness from AC mold?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in our apartment in Jumeirah Village Circle seems to be leaking, and we've noticed small black spots around the vent in my toddler's bedroom. Since last week, he's developed a constant runny nose and a cough that just won't go away, and I'm starting to panic. Could this mold exposure be the cause of his symptoms, and what should my first step be to handle this safely?
Posted by Karan Das
Asked on April 16, 2026 1:40 pm
Yes, your toddler's symptoms could very well be a reaction to mold exposure from the AC. The constant runny nose and persistent cough are common responses to mold spores, especially in young children whose respiratory systems are more sensitive. The leak from the AC unit in your JVC apartment creates the perfect environment for mold by providing the moisture it needs to thrive, compounded by our high Dubai humidity.

Your first step should be to immediately stop using that specific AC unit to prevent further spore dispersal. Do not attempt to clean the black spots yourself, as disturbing the mold can release a large quantity of spores into the air. The safest course of action is to arrange for a professional mold inspection. A certified inspector can safely assess the extent of the growth within the unit and the ductwork, which is not visible to you.

The inspection should include air and surface sampling. This is crucial; the samples must be analyzed by an accredited microbiology lab to identify the specific type of mold present. This lab report is what differentiates a credible assessment from a simple visual check, as it confirms the species and concentration, which informs the necessary remediation steps. This evidence-based approach is the only way to know the exact risk to your family's health and how to resolve it effectively.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 19, 2026 12:20 pm