Could this wall mold cause our persistent coughs?« Back to Previous Page

Yes, the black mould behind your wardrobe could very well be contributing to your family's persistent coughs and sore throats. In Dubai's humid climate, this is a common issue, particularly on exterior walls where condensation can form behind furniture that restricts airflow.

The black, powdery substance is likely Stachybotrys chartarum or another common household species. These moulds release microscopic spores and mycotoxins into the air you breathe, which are known irritants. For children and those with sensitivities, this constant exposure often manifests as respiratory symptoms like a nagging cough, congestion, and throat irritation that standard medications won't resolve because the source of the irritation is environmental.

Given the symptoms and the visible growth, a professional inspection is strongly recommended. Do not attempt to clean it yourself with bleach, as this can agitate the spores and worsen the air quality. A proper assessment involves more than just looking; it requires measuring the indoor air quality and identifying the moisture source, which could be a small plumbing leak, condensation from AC ducts, or vapour drive through the wall from the outside humidity. Companies with their own microbiology labs can take air and surface samples to identify the specific type of mould and its concentration, which dictates the correct remediation protocol.

The first step is to address the moisture issue—this is non-negotiable. Then, a certified remediation team should contain and remove the affected materials. Finally, post-remediation verification testing is crucial to confirm the spore count in the air has returned to acceptable levels before you consider the issue resolved.