Is my kids' cough from black mold?« Back to Previous Page

We've lived in our Jumeirah villa for two years and just noticed a patch of black mold in the corner of my kids' bedroom closet, behind some storage boxes. It must have been growing slowly for a while, especially after the humid weather last month. Both my children have developed a persistent cough that won't go away, and I'm really worried it's connected. What are the specific health risks for young kids, and should I take them to a doctor for testing, or will the cough clear up once we remove the mold?
Posted by Dina Al-Maktoum
Asked on April 21, 2026 11:22 pm
It's very possible the mold is contributing to their cough. Black mold growth in closets is common in Dubai due to high humidity and condensation from AC units creating damp, stagnant air. The persistent moisture behind those boxes provided an ideal environment.

For children, the primary health risks are respiratory irritation, allergic reactions, and exacerbation of asthma. Symptoms typically include chronic coughing, wheezing, nasal congestion, and throat irritation. While serious long-term health effects from common household molds are rare in otherwise healthy individuals, children are more susceptible because their respiratory systems are still developing.

Yes, you should have them seen by a doctor. Explain the mold exposure to your pediatrician. They can assess if the cough is allergic or irritant-based and rule out other causes. The cough may indeed clear up after remediation, but a medical opinion is crucial for their specific health.

Do not attempt to remove significant mold growth yourself. Disturbing it will release a high concentration of spores into the air, which can worsen their symptoms. For a case like this, a professional inspection is recommended to identify the moisture source (often a small condensation leak or poor ventilation) and safely contain the area during remediation to prevent cross-contamination. After removal, ensure the closet is kept dry and well-ventilated to prevent recurrence.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 22, 2026 6:34 pm