Could black mold in my Dubai villa cause kids' coughing?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing non-stop for the past month, and I’ve just discovered patches of black mold behind the toilet in our master bathroom. We live in a villa in Jumeirah Park, and the humidity has been awful lately. Could this mold be the reason for their constant cold-like symptoms, and what’s the fastest way to get it professionally tested and removed here in Dubai?
Posted by Rekha Banerjee
Asked on May 14, 2026 6:01 am
Yes, black mold in your bathroom could definitely be causing your children's persistent coughing and cold-like symptoms. In Dubai's high humidity, especially during summer, bathrooms are prime locations for mold growth due to condensation from showers and inadequate ventilation. The spores released by active mold colonies are respiratory irritants, and children are particularly susceptible.

For immediate action, increase ventilation by running the exhaust fan during and for at least 30 minutes after showers. Wipe down wet surfaces and address any visible leaks. For the visible patch behind the toilet, a solution of white vinegar or a diluted bleach mixture can be used for a small, surface-level clean. However, given the symptoms and the fact it's already behind fixtures, professional assessment is strongly recommended to check for hidden growth within walls or under flooring.

The fastest way for professional testing in Dubai is to engage a company with its own accredited microbiology lab. They can conduct air and surface sampling to identify the specific mold species and its concentration, which is crucial for understanding the health risk and planning remediation. Proper remediation involves containment of the area, HEPA filtration, removal of contaminated porous materials, and treatment to prevent recurrence. Always request a post-remediation verification test to ensure the environment is safe. This lab-driven approach is the standard for resolving health-related mold issues effectively.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on May 15, 2026 5:54 am