Should I test mold or see a doctor for kids' cough?« Back to Previous Page

Yes, take your children to a doctor first. Their persistent cough needs immediate medical evaluation to rule out common causes and to get treatment started. Mention the mold discovery to the doctor, as this context is crucial. The dampness and constant AC use are significant clues; in Dubai's climate, this often creates a perfect environment for mold growth due to condensation inside poorly ventilated rooms.

For the mold itself, do not attempt to clean a large patch yourself. Disturbing it will release a massive amount of spores into the air, which your family will breathe in. The fastest way to get it professionally handled is a two-step process: inspection and remediation.

First, arrange for a professional mold inspection. A reputable inspector will do more than a visual check; they should use a moisture meter to find the water source (often a small AC leak or seepage through the external wall) and may recommend air or surface sampling to identify the mold type. This is important, as some species are more problematic than others.

Once the extent is known, certified mold remediation is the next step. This is not a simple cleaning; it involves isolating the area, using specialized HEPA filtration equipment to clean the air, safely removing the contaminated materials, and treating the area to prevent regrowth. The goal is to fix the moisture problem and remove the mold, not just wipe it away.

For both steps, look for providers with certifications like IICRC and who can provide a detailed report with verifiable lab results from a recognized microbiology lab. This ensures the job is done to a standard that truly protects your family's health.