Immediate steps for black mold exposure with asthma?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing non-stop since the heavy rains last month, and I’ve just discovered patches of black mold behind their bedroom wardrobe in our Jumeirah villa. I’m terrified it’s affecting their health, especially my youngest who has asthma. What are the immediate steps I should take to protect my family while we get this sorted?
Posted by Youssef Khan
Asked on April 25, 2026 4:56 am
Black mold exposure with asthma requires immediate action, especially in Dubai's humid climate where indoor conditions can worsen it. First, restrict access to the room and keep the children out, particularly your asthmatic child. Do not attempt to scrub the mold yourself, as this releases a massive amount of spores and mycotoxins into the air.

Increase ventilation in the home by opening windows when outdoor humidity is lower, typically early morning or evening. Run any dehumidifiers you have and ensure your AC is set to a comfortable, cool temperature to help reduce humidity levels further; maintaining indoor humidity below 60% is critical to slow its growth. The condensation from AC units can often contribute to hidden moisture problems.

For a situation involving asthma and visible growth, a professional inspection is strongly advised. They can assess the full extent, often using moisture meters and borescopes to check inside walls, as the patch behind the wardrobe is likely just the visible tip. The inspection should identify the moisture source, which is essential for permanent resolution—this could be a leak from the recent rains or condensation from an AC pipe.

A certified remediation company should handle the removal. They will seal off the area, use HEPA filtration to clean the air, and safely remove contaminated materials. Verify their credentials; look for IICRC-certified firms as they follow strict protocols. After remediation, a post-clearance test, ideally from an independent lab, is the only way to confirm the environment is safe again for your family.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 26, 2026 5:46 am