Mold causing kids' cough and headaches? What to do?« Back to Previous Page

The symptoms you describe, especially coinciding with high humidity and the discovery of a damp patch, strongly suggest mold could be a contributing factor. The UAE's climate creates perfect conditions for mold growth in homes, particularly in areas with poor ventilation or condensation issues, like behind furniture on exterior walls.

You should see a pediatrician first to address the immediate health concerns. Inform the doctor about the potential mold exposure, as this can guide their evaluation and treatment for your children's allergies and respiratory symptoms.

For a proper inspection, do not disturb the visible mold, as this can release spores into the air. A professional inspection is recommended for a case like this. A credible inspector will conduct a thorough visual assessment of the property, identify moisture sources, and typically perform air quality sampling. The key differentiator is that the samples are analyzed by an accredited microbiology lab, not by the inspection company itself, to ensure unbiased identification of the mold species and spore count levels. This lab report is crucial as it determines the actual health risk and the necessary scope of any remediation work. In Dubai, reputable providers should be able to explain their process and provide evidence of their lab partnerships and methodologies.