Is black mold behind furniture dangerous for children?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing non-stop for the past two weeks and we can't figure out why. I finally pulled out their toy chest from the corner of their bedroom in our Jumeirah villa and found a huge patch of black mold on the wall behind it, probably from the humidity. What are the specific health risks for young children from this kind of exposure and should I take them to a doctor immediately?
Posted by Jaya Malhotra
Asked on May 15, 2026 10:55 am
Yes, black mold behind furniture is particularly dangerous for children due to their developing respiratory systems and higher breathing rates. The primary health risks from this kind of exposure include persistent allergic reactions like coughing, wheezing, and nasal congestion, which can mimic a cold. In more sensitive individuals, it can trigger asthma attacks or lead to more serious respiratory infections.

Given the symptoms you've described—non-stop coughing for two weeks—it is advisable to consult a doctor. A pediatrician can assess your children and determine if the mold exposure is the likely cause. Be sure to mention your discovery of the mold, as this is a critical piece of information for their diagnosis.

The environment in your Jumeirah villa is a classic scenario. Furniture pushed against exterior walls can trap cold air from the AC, leading to condensation and mold growth in our high humidity. This is a very common issue in Dubai homes.

For remediation, do not attempt to clean it yourself, as this can aerosolize the spores. The moldy wall area needs to be properly assessed, contained, and treated by a professional to prevent the spores from spreading throughout the room. A proper inspection will identify the moisture source—often a small leak or condensation—that must be fixed to prevent it from returning. After remediation, a post-test is the only way to verify the air quality is safe.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on May 16, 2026 1:31 pm