Could mold in my villa be making my kids sick?« Back to Previous Page

Yes, the mold behind the wardrobe could very well be causing your children's persistent runny nose and cough. In Dubai's high humidity, especially in villa accommodations, hidden mold growth is a common trigger for respiratory irritation and allergy-like symptoms. The black spots are a visible sign of a moisture problem, likely from condensation or a small leak, and the spores they release into the air can directly irritate the nose, throat, and lungs.

Your first step is to address the moisture source. Move the wardrobe to fully assess the wall. Wipe the visible mold with a dilute vinegar or detergent solution, but only if the area is small (less than one square meter) and you can do it without stirring up a lot of spores. Wear a mask and gloves, and ensure the room is well-ventilated. Crucially, run a dehumidifier in the room; controlling indoor humidity below 60% is essential in our climate to prevent regrowth.

Because the symptoms are ongoing and the growth is behind furniture—indicating a potential hidden issue—a professional inspection is strongly recommended. They can use moisture meters and borescopes to check inside walls for larger, concealed colonies that DIY cleaning can't address. For health confirmation, a lab test of the mold can identify the species and its potential for causing allergic reactions, which is particularly valuable information to share with your family doctor.