Could bathtub mold cause my kids' month-long cough?« Back to Previous Page

Yes, the mold behind your bathtub sealant is a very likely cause of your children's persistent cough. The damp smell you've noticed is a clear indicator of active microbial growth, and the constant coughing is a classic reaction to inhaling mold spores released into the air. This is especially common in Dubai bathrooms where high humidity from showers combines with year-round AC use, creating condensation that gets trapped in poorly sealed areas.

For a case this severe, with visible growth and health symptoms, a professional inspection is strongly recommended. DIY cleaning on surface mold is one thing, but the growth you've found underneath the sealant suggests a deeper issue. The remediation process must be thorough: the old silicone must be completely removed, the substrate beneath treated with antimicrobial solutions to kill the root structure, and the area dried before a new, high-quality sealant is applied. Without this, the mold will return quickly.

In the UAE, look for a provider that follows IICRC S520 standards for mold remediation. This ensures they use containment procedures to prevent spores from spreading to other parts of your apartment during the work. The fastest way to resolve this is to request an assessment from a company with its own microbiology lab; they can take swab samples to identify the mold type and provide a precise remediation protocol, not just a surface clean. This scientific approach is critical for resolving health-related cases.

Until the professionals arrive, improve ventilation by running the bathroom exhaust fan for at least 30 minutes after every shower and keep the bathroom door closed to contain spores. Wipe down wet surfaces to reduce immediate moisture. Addressing the source is the only way to stop the symptoms.