Is hidden black mold causing my kids' persistent cough?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing non-stop for the past month and I’m starting to worry. I’ve just pulled our sofa away from the wall in our Jumeirah villa and found a huge patch of black mold hidden behind it, probably from a slow leak we never noticed. The room constantly feels damp even with the AC on. Is this type of mold dangerous and what’s the fastest way to get it professionally tested and removed?
Posted by Susan Clark
Asked on May 12, 2026 10:45 pm
Hidden black mold is a likely cause of persistent coughing, especially in children who are more sensitive to airborne spores. The damp room feeling confirms a humidity problem, common in Dubai villas where AC systems struggle against high ambient moisture, often leading to condensation and hidden mold growth behind furniture or in walls.

This situation requires professional assessment. Do not disturb the area yourself, as this will release a large number of spores into your living space. In Dubai, reputable remediation companies follow standards like the IICRC S520 for mold remediation. The fastest way to get tested is to engage a company with an in-house microbiology lab; they can often dispatch an inspector within 24 hours to take air and surface samples, with lab results confirming the mold type and concentration within a few days.

For removal, the process must address the source—the hidden leak—first. Remediation involves sealing the area, using HEPA filtration to clean the air, removing contaminated materials, and applying antimicrobial treatments. Finally, post-remediation verification (a clear lab test) is essential to confirm the space is safe. Given your children's symptoms, this is a high-priority issue.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on May 14, 2026 1:49 pm