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

Yes, mold could very well be causing your children's persistent cough, especially given the recent humidity and the signs you've described. In Dubai's climate, high humidity combined with year-round AC use creates ideal conditions for mold growth in hidden areas like behind closets and inside wall cavities. The damp smell in your master bedroom is a strong indicator of an active moisture problem.

The small black spots in the closet and the systemic damp odor suggest this isn't an isolated issue. Mold releases spores and microbial volatile organic compounds (mVOCs) that are respiratory irritants, particularly for children. Their coughing is a common physiological response to these airborne contaminants.

You should arrange for a professional mold inspection. Look for a provider that uses a combination of visual assessment, moisture mapping, and—most critically—air and surface sampling that is sent to an accredited microbiology lab for analysis. This is the only way to definitively identify the species present and the concentration levels in the air your family is breathing, which informs the necessary remediation steps. In the interim, improve ventilation in the room as much as possible and consider using a dehumidifier to help reduce ambient moisture levels.