Mold in villa making my toddlers sick?« Back to Previous Page

Mold exposure can definitely cause those symptoms in toddlers, who are more sensitive to airborne irritants. The persistent runny nose and cough you describe are common reactions to mold spores, especially in a humid climate like Dubai's where AC systems can recirculate contaminants.

You should arrange a professional mold inspection immediately. In a villa, hidden growth inside AC ducts or wall cavities is common and requires specialized equipment to assess. Do not attempt to clean visible growth yourself, as disturbing it can release a large number of spores. An inspector will identify the moisture source—often condensation from AC units or a hidden leak—and the extent of the contamination.

Concurrently, a visit to your pediatrician is advised. Inform them of the potential mold exposure. They can evaluate your children and determine if specific allergy tests are necessary, though treatment often focuses on managing the symptoms and removing the exposure source.

For remediation, the Dubai Municipality has guidelines for proper mold removal to ensure it is handled safely and effectively, preventing recurrence. The priority is to stop the moisture source, contain the area during removal, and properly dispose of contaminated materials. After remediation, a post-clearance test, ideally from an independent lab, is the only way to verify the air quality is safe.