Is hidden mold causing my kids' constant sickness?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing non-stop for the past month and their eyes are always watery, especially after they've been playing in their bedroom. I finally pulled their bunk beds away from the wall and found a huge patch of black mold hidden behind there, probably from the AC unit's condensation. We've lived in this Jumeirah Park villa for two years and just noticed this. Could this mold be the reason for their constant sickness and what's the safest way to get rid of it without making them sicker?
Posted by Robert Scott
Asked on May 12, 2026 3:30 am
Yes, the hidden mold is very likely the cause of your children's persistent coughing and watery eyes. These are classic symptoms of mold exposure, particularly the type of irritation that occurs from inhaling its spores. The location directly behind their bunk beds, where they sleep and play, creates a high-exposure environment.

In Dubai's climate, this scenario is common. AC condensation lines can leak or drain improperly, creating a constant source of moisture inside walls. Combined with our high humidity, this creates an ideal environment for mold to thrive out of sight. The black coloration suggests it could be Cladosporium or Aspergillus, both common here and known respiratory irritants.

Do not attempt to clean a large patch yourself. Disturbing it will aerosolize a massive number of spores, potentially making their symptoms much worse. The safest first step is to have a professional mold inspection. They will assess the full extent of the growth, identify the species, and check for moisture sources—like that AC unit—to prevent recurrence.

For remediation, look for a company that uses containment procedures (sealing off the area with plastic sheeting) and HEPA air scrubbers to capture spores during removal. They should also provide verified lab results showing spore counts are back to safe levels after the cleanup. Addressing the root cause, like repairing the AC condensation leak, is essential to keep it from returning.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on May 12, 2026 11:44 am