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

Yes, the mould you found is very likely contributing to your children's cough and headaches. The symptoms you describe—persistent respiratory irritation and headaches—are classic signs of exposure to mould spores and the microbial volatile organic compounds (mVOCs) they release. The recent high humidity in Dubai provides the perfect environment for mould to thrive, especially in hidden, poorly ventilated areas like behind furniture.

While not all black mould is the infamous Stachybotrys, prolonged exposure to any mould type can cause these health effects, particularly in children whose respiratory systems are still developing. You should schedule a visit with their paediatrician to discuss the symptoms and the mould exposure. In the meantime, do not attempt to clean it yourself with bleach or by scrubbing, as this can aerosolize a massive amount of spores and worsen the problem.

The proximity to the children's room means spores are circulating in the air they breathe. A proper remediation is required. This involves isolating the area, using HEPA filtration to capture spores during cleaning, and addressing the underlying moisture source—likely condensation from the AC or a small, undetected leak. For a case like this, a professional inspection is strongly advised to assess the full extent and perform remediation that protects your family's health, following standards like the IICRC S520.