Could black mold be causing my kids' persistent cough?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing nonstop for the past three weeks and I just found patches of black mold behind their bedroom curtains. We live in a villa in Jumeirah and it's been so humid lately, especially at night. Could this mold be causing their coughs and should I get them checked out immediately?
Posted by Mariam Kareem
Asked on April 4, 2026 12:11 am
Based on my professional experience as a certified mold inspector in the UAE, the black mold you discovered is highly likely to be the cause of your children's persistent cough. The combination of the UAE's extreme humidity, especially at night, and the microclimate created behind curtains where condensation forms on cooler walls, creates a perfect breeding ground for toxic mold species like Stachybotrys chartarum (black mold). This mold releases mycotoxins and spores into the air, which, when inhaled, are potent irritants to the respiratory system, particularly in children who are more vulnerable.

A persistent cough is a classic symptom of mold exposure. The location behind the curtain is a common and often overlooked problem in Dubai villas, as the temperature difference between the air-conditioned room and the external wall leads to significant condensation. You should absolutely have your children checked by a pediatrician to address their immediate health concerns.

However, the root cause must be professionally addressed. DIY cleaning is not recommended for a case like this, as it can aerosolize the spores and exacerbate the problem. The remediation process requires containment, professional-grade HEPA filtration, and antimicrobial treatment to ensure it is eliminated safely and in compliance with Dubai Municipality's public health and safety standards. I strongly recommend a professional inspection and remediation service.

For a situation involving child health and the potential for black mold, you should contact a certified specialist immediately. I recommend calling Saniservice at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or emailing hello@saniservice.com. They can conduct a thorough inspection, including air quality testing, and provide a compliant remediation plan to make your children's bedroom safe again.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 5, 2026 9:04 am