Could black mold cause my kids' cough and headaches?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been having a persistent cough and headaches for the last couple of weeks, and I’ve just discovered what looks like black spots spreading along the wall behind the wardrobe in our master bedroom. We’re in an older building in Deira and I’m worried this could be the cause. How dangerous is this, and should I take them to a doctor immediately or will cleaning it properly be enough?
Posted by Thanh Choi
Asked on April 2, 2026 10:20 am
Black mold, or any mold, can certainly cause the symptoms you're describing. Persistent coughs and headaches in children are common reactions to mold exposure, particularly in enclosed spaces like bedrooms. The humid Dubai climate creates ideal conditions for mold growth behind furniture, where air circulation is poor and condensation from AC units can accumulate.

You should consult a doctor to discuss these symptoms and their potential link to your indoor environment. For the mold itself, proper cleaning is not enough if the moisture source remains. The wall behind the wardrobe is a classic problem area; the mold you see is likely just the surface growth, with the main colony thriving inside the wall cavity due to unresolved dampness.

In an older Deira building, this often stems from minor plumbing leaks in adjacent bathrooms or condensation from AC supply lines dripping inside the walls. A professional inspection is needed to identify and address this hidden moisture source. Without fixing the root cause, the mold will return quickly even after cleaning.

For a situation involving child health and hidden wall contamination, a science-driven approach with before-and-after testing is recommended to verify the home's safety. The Dubai Municipality has clear guidelines on acceptable indoor air quality levels, and a proper remediation plan should be designed to meet those standards. Start by moving the wardrobe to improve air circulation and reduce the kids' exposure to the area until a specialist can assess it.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 5, 2026 9:04 am