Is mold causing my kids' illness and how to clean?« Back to Previous Page

Yes, the mold you discovered is very likely contributing to your children's persistent coughing and headaches. The symptoms you describe—respiratory irritation and headaches—are common reactions to mold spore exposure, especially in children who are more sensitive. The damp, enclosed space under your stairs is a classic breeding ground in Dubai's climate, where high humidity and condensation from constant AC use create ideal conditions for mold growth.

Do not attempt to clean this yourself. Disturbing the mold will release a massive cloud of spores into your home's air, potentially making your children's symptoms much worse. The safest first step is to immediately isolate the area. Close the cupboard door and seal the gaps with tape if possible to prevent spores from circulating into your main living space through the AC system.

For a situation of this scale and with existing health impacts, a professional inspection is strongly advised. They will conduct air quality testing to identify the spore types and concentration levels, which is critical for determining the appropriate remediation strategy. In the UAE, remediation companies should follow standards like the IICRC S520 for mold removal. The process will involve containing the area with negative air pressure, using HEPA filtration to capture spores, safely removing contaminated materials, and treating the structure with antimicrobial solutions.

After remediation, addressing the source of the moisture is essential to prevent recurrence. This often involves improving ventilation, using a dehumidifier in that space, and ensuring your AC system is properly balanced to not contribute to condensation problems.