Could mold in our villa cause my kids' cough?« Back to Previous Page

Yes, the mold you found is very likely contributing to your children's persistent cough. The damp, earthy smell from the AC unit confirms it is actively spreading spores into the air they breathe. In Dubai's climate, where high humidity and condensation are constant issues, indoor mold growth is a common trigger for respiratory irritation, allergic reactions, and asthma-like symptoms, especially in children.

Your first step is to limit their exposure. Keep them out of that bedroom and close the door. Do not attempt to clean the patch yourself, as disturbing it will release a large number of spores. For the AC, immediately turn off the unit serving that room to prevent it from circulating air throughout the space.

Given the combination of visible growth after the rains and a contaminated AC system, a professional inspection is strongly recommended. They can assess the full extent of the problem, which often extends inside walls or under floors where moisture has traveled. In Dubai, reputable inspectors use moisture meters and thermal imaging cameras to find hidden dampness and will typically take air or surface samples for lab analysis to identify the mold species. This evidence is crucial for planning an effective remediation strategy that addresses the root cause—the moisture—to prevent it from returning.