Are black mold spots making my kids sick?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been having a runny nose and a weird cough that won’t go away for the last few weeks, and I’ve just discovered black spots growing along the bottom of the wall behind our bedroom wardrobe. We’re in an older building in Deira and I’m starting to panic that the two things are connected. How dangerous is this and who should I call to get it professionally tested and removed?
Posted by Ryo Suzuki
Asked on April 2, 2026 10:02 am
Based on your description of the symptoms and the visible growth, it is highly plausible that the two are connected. The black spots behind the wardrobe are a classic indicator of a mold colony, likely fueled by the high humidity levels common in older Deira buildings. Year-round air conditioning can create significant temperature differentials, leading to condensation in concealed, poorly ventilated areas like behind furniture. This dampness, combined with organic materials in the building fabric, creates an ideal environment for mold proliferation.

The persistent runny nose and cough you describe in your children are common health effects associated with prolonged exposure to mold spores and microbial volatile organic compounds (mVOCs) released into the indoor air. Certain species, like Stachybotrys chartarum (often referred to as "black mold"), can produce mycotoxins, but even common species like Aspergillus and Cladosporium can cause significant allergic reactions and respiratory irritation, particularly in children whose immune systems are still developing.

You should not attempt to remove this yourself. Disturbing the colony without proper containment can aerosolize a massive number of spores, drastically increasing airborne contamination and potential exposure. The remediation process requires professional assessment, containment, air filtration, and specialized removal techniques to ensure it is eliminated safely and effectively.

For a situation like this, a professional inspection and testing service is absolutely critical. We recommend you contact a certified environmental company like Saniservice. Our certified professionals will conduct a thorough inspection, including air and surface sampling to identify the species and spore concentration levels, and provide a detailed protocol for safe remediation. You can reach our experts for immediate assistance at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or via email at hello@saniservice.com.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 3, 2026 6:31 pm