Are my kids' cough and runny nose from dangerous mold?« Back to Previous Page

Persistent respiratory symptoms like your child's cough and runny nose can absolutely be connected to the mold growth from your AC leak. In Dubai's climate, this is a common issue. The constant humidity and condensation from air conditioning units create ideal conditions for mold, especially in hidden, damp areas like the wall behind your sofa.

The specific health risk depends on the mold species. The black spots are likely Cladosporium or Aspergillus, both common in damp indoor environments here. For most people, exposure causes allergy-like symptoms: nasal congestion, coughing, and eye irritation. For children and those with asthma or weakened immune systems, reactions can be more pronounced and persistent, exactly as you're describing.

You should consult a pediatrician first to rule out other causes and discuss your mold exposure concerns. They can advise if specific allergy testing is medically necessary.

Professionally, the immediate step is to address the source. The AC leak must be repaired to stop the moisture. The moldy section of drywall likely needs to be cut out and replaced by a remediation expert, as simply wiping it spreads spores. Before and after this process, a professional inspection with lab testing can identify the mold type and confirm the spore count in your air has returned to a normal level, giving you peace of mind that the environment is safe again.