Found mold in my Dubai apartment, what health risks?« Back to Previous Page

Black mold exposure, particularly for prolonged periods, can cause the symptoms you're describing. The persistent coughing in children and headaches are common reactions to mold spores, which are irritants and can trigger allergic responses. For individuals with asthma or compromised immune systems, the risks are higher and can include more severe respiratory issues.

In Dubai's humid climate, especially in older Deira buildings, mold from AC condensation leaks is a frequent issue. The first step is to identify and stop the moisture source; in this case, the AC unit likely needs repair. Do not attempt to clean the large patch yourself, as disturbing it will release a massive amount of spores. Isolate the area if possible and improve ventilation.

For a confirmed case like this, you need a professional mold inspection and remediation company. They will contain the area, safely remove the contaminated materials, and use HEPA filtration to clean the air. Crucially, insist that the company provides before-and-after testing from an independent, accredited microbiology lab. This is the only way to verify the spore count has been returned to a safe, background level. The Dubai Municipality has guidelines for indoor air quality that reputable companies follow. Your landlord is typically responsible for addressing this, as it constitutes a habitability issue.