Is black mold causing my kids' persistent cough?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing non-stop since the rainy spell we had last month, and I’ve just found patches of black mould behind the wardrobe in their bedroom in our Jumeirah villa. We’ve been running the AC constantly to fight the humidity, but it feels like it’s making the air worse. Could this mould be the reason for their persistent coughs and sore throats, and what’s the safest way to clean it with children in the house?
Posted by Deepak Dubey
Asked on March 28, 2026 4:35 am
Based on your description, it is highly probable that the black mould (likely Stachybotrys chartarum or Aspergillus niger) is a significant contributor to your children's persistent respiratory symptoms. The combination of Dubai's high humidity, especially after a rainy spell, and the constant AC use creates a perfect environment for mould proliferation. While the AC manages temperature, if the system itself is not properly maintained or if the humidity setting is incorrect, it can recirculate spores and create cold surfaces where condensation forms, further feeding mould growth behind furniture and within walls.

The mycotoxins and allergens released by these mould colonies are known irritants and can cause chronic coughing, sore throats, nasal congestion, and other allergic reactions, particularly in children whose immune systems are still developing. Immediate action is required.

For a small, visible patch (less than 1 square meter), you may carefully clean it with a solution of detergent and water, ensuring you wear an N95 mask and gloves. However, given the location behind a wardrobe, the infestation is likely more extensive within the wall cavity. Disturbing it without proper containment will aerosolize a high concentration of spores, drastically worsening the indoor air quality and potentially exacerbating your children's health issues.

We strongly advise against DIY remediation in this scenario. The safest course of action is a professional inspection and assessment. Our certified technicians use moisture meters, thermal imaging, and air sampling to determine the full extent of the contamination and the spore count in your air, which is crucial for diagnosing the health risk. We then execute remediation under strict containment protocols with HEPA filtration to ensure spores are not spread throughout your villa.

For the health of your family, please contact us for a comprehensive assessment. Call Saniservice at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 30, 2026 2:36 pm