Is mold causing my family's cough?« Back to Previous Page

Based on your description, it is very likely that mold is contributing to your family's persistent cough. The damp, earthy smell and visible spotting on stored fabrics are classic indicators of an active mold colony. The high humidity in Dubai, combined with a potentially poorly ventilated storage space, creates an ideal environment for mold growth, especially after a long period of vacancy with the AC off.

The first step is to limit exposure. Keep the storage cupboard closed and avoid disturbing the area, as this can release more spores into your home's air. Do not attempt to clean the spotted items yet, as improper handling can spread the contamination. For a situation involving health symptoms and visible growth, a professional inspection is strongly recommended over a DIY approach. An expert will use tools like moisture meters and thermal imaging to find the source of the moisture—often condensation from AC ductwork or a slow leak—and perform air and surface sampling. This sampling is key; the lab analysis identifies the specific mold types present and their concentration, which determines the appropriate remediation strategy and helps you understand the health risk.

In Dubai, properties with persistent dampness issues often require more than just cleaning the visible mold; the underlying moisture problem must be solved to prevent recurrence. A proper inspection provides the data needed to fix it correctly.