Could this mold be causing my family's cough?« Back to Previous Page

Based on your description of discovering black-spotted items in a damp storage cupboard following the January rains, it is highly probable that you are dealing with a significant mold infestation, and it is a very likely contributor to your family's persistent cough. The symptoms you describe are classic indicators of exposure to mold spores and mycotoxins, which are volatile organic compounds released by active colonies.

In the UAE's climate, the combination of high ambient humidity and the constant use of air conditioning creates ideal conditions for mold growth, particularly in poorly ventilated, cool spaces like under-stair cupboards. The heavy rains we experienced would have increased relative humidity and potentially caused unnoticed water ingress, providing the moisture necessary for mold to thrive on organic materials like cotton, leather, and dust.

Black discoloration often points to Cladosporium or Stachybotrys chartarum (often called "black mold"), both of which are known respiratory irritants and can trigger allergic reactions, asthma, and chronic coughing, especially in children.

For a definitive answer, a professional inspection is absolutely essential. DIY testing kits are unreliable and cannot assess the full extent of contamination within wall cavities or the air quality. A certified mold inspector in Dubai will conduct a comprehensive assessment including visual inspection, moisture mapping with thermal imaging, and air quality sampling to identify the spore types and concentration levels. This data is critical for formulating an effective remediation plan.

Do not attempt to clean this yourself, as disturbing the colonies will aerosolize the spores and exacerbate the health issues. For a proper inspection and testing service, I strongly recommend you contact the experts at Saniservice. They are equipped to handle this in accordance with Dubai Municipality guidelines and can provide a certified report. You can reach them at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or hello@saniservice.com.