Could bedroom mold in Dubai cause kids' coughing?« Back to Previous Page
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My kids have been coughing nonstop for the past two weeks and I’ve just found patches of black mold in the back of our bedroom wardrobe, which is on the wall facing the building's exterior. It’s been so humid lately that I’m worried the moisture is seeping in. Is this kind of mold in a Dubai apartment common and could it be causing their respiratory issues?
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Yes, the mold you've discovered is a very likely culprit for your children's persistent coughing. In the context of Dubai's climate, this is an unfortunately common scenario. The high ambient humidity, especially during summer months, combines with the year-round use of air conditioning. When cool, dry air from the AC unit meets the warm, humid air infiltrating from outside through the building's exterior walls, it creates significant condensation within the wall cavity. This trapped moisture provides the perfect environment for mold growth, precisely as you've described behind your wardrobe.
The black patches are likely Cladosporium or Aspergillus, both common in damp indoor environments in the UAE. These molds produce spores and microbial volatile organic compounds (mVOCs) that are respiratory irritants. In children, whose airways are smaller and immune systems are still developing, exposure can trigger chronic coughing, wheezing, throat irritation, and exacerbate conditions like asthma. This is a serious indoor air quality issue. While surface cleaning with a diluted vinegar solution can remove visible growth, it is a temporary fix. The root cause is the moisture intrusion, which requires professional diagnosis. A certified mold inspector will use moisture meters and thermal imaging cameras to identify the exact source and extent of the moisture problem within the wall, which is critical for an effective remediation plan. I strongly recommend you cease using the wardrobe and arrange for a professional inspection immediately. Our team at Saniservice is certified and equipped to handle such cases in accordance with Dubai Municipality guidelines. We can provide a comprehensive assessment and a remediation plan to safeguard your family's health. Please call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection. |
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