Could this black mold cause my kids' coughs?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing for the past few weeks and we can't figure out why. I finally pulled out the sofa bed in our spare room in Jumeirah and found a huge patch of black mold on the wall behind it, probably from a small leak. We've been sleeping in there when family visits. Could this be the cause of their coughs and should I be really worried about their health?
Posted by Min Choi
Asked on March 31, 2026 5:46 pm
Based on my professional experience with mold inspection in Dubai, it is highly probable that the black mold you discovered is the cause of your children's persistent coughs. The location you describe—behind furniture against a wall, especially in a room with intermittent use and a suspected leak—is a classic breeding ground for mold. The Dubai climate, with its high humidity and the constant use of air conditioning, creates significant condensation issues, particularly on cooler exterior walls. This trapped moisture provides the perfect environment for mold colonies to thrive.

The type of black mold you describe (likely Stachybotrys chartarum or Aspergillus niger) is particularly concerning. These molds produce mycotoxins and spores that become airborne and are easily inhaled. For children, whose respiratory systems are still developing, this exposure can lead to chronic coughing, wheezing, throat irritation, and other allergic reactions. Prolonged exposure can exacerbate asthma and lead to more serious respiratory conditions.

Given the visible size of the patch, the situation requires immediate professional attention. DIY cleaning is not recommended, as improper disturbance can aerosolize a massive amount of spores, contaminating your entire home's air supply and worsening the health impact. UAE regulations and best practices for mold remediation require containment, specialized HEPA filtration, and proper disposal to ensure the problem is eradicated safely.

I strongly advise you to cease using the room immediately and contact a certified professional for an inspection and remediation plan. For a thorough assessment and safe removal, I recommend calling Saniservice at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or emailing hello@saniservice.com. Their team is equipped to handle the specific challenges of mold in UAE properties and can ensure your home is returned to a safe and healthy environment.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 2, 2026 1:34 am