Found mold causing kids' cough; doctor and cleaning steps?« Back to Previous Page
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My kids have been coughing non-stop for the past month and we can't seem to shake it. I've just pulled their bed away from the wall in our Deira apartment and found a huge patch of black, fuzzy mold spreading from the corner where the AC unit drips. I'm panicking now, thinking their cough is because of this. What are the immediate steps I should take to clean this safely and should I take them to a doctor here for a specific test?
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Stop moving furniture or disturbing the area. Airborne spores from cleaning it yourself could worsen your children's exposure. The persistent cough is a significant symptom that warrants an immediate doctor's visit. Request a thorough check for respiratory irritation or allergies; inform the doctor about the mold discovery.
For the mold itself, this requires professional assessment. The black coloration often indicates Stachybotrys or Aspergillus, species that can produce irritants and require careful handling. In Dubai's climate, the constant AC use leads to condensation, creating the damp corners this mold thrives in. Remediation isn't just wiping the wall; the source of the moisture—likely the AC drip line—must be identified and fixed to prevent immediate regrowth. A certified mold inspector can test to identify the species and the extent of the problem, which is often hidden inside walls. They should provide a detailed protocol for safe containment and removal. Look for a provider that uses independent lab analysis to verify the mold type and confirm post-remediation clearance. For severe visible growth impacting health, DIY cleaning is not recommended. |
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