Is black mold causing my son's allergy symptoms?« Back to Previous Page

It is possible. The black spots behind your clothes are likely mold caused by the persistent AC leak, and the constant humidity in Dubai's climate creates an ideal environment for it to thrive. Mold spores can become airborne and cause allergic reactions like a runny nose and skin irritation, which aligns with your son's symptoms.

For a proper diagnosis, you should take your son to a pediatric allergist or a dermatologist. Many hospitals in Dubai, such as Emirates Hospital or King's College Hospital London in Dubai Hills, have specialists who can conduct specific allergy tests, including skin prick tests or blood tests (IgE), to identify environmental allergens, including mold sensitivity.

You should report this to your landlord immediately. According to Dubai rental laws (Law No. 26 of 2007), landlords are responsible for maintaining the property's structure and essential services, which includes fixing AC units that are causing water damage and subsequent mold growth. Document the leak and the mold with photos and dated communications to formally request urgent repairs and remediation.

Do not attempt to clean significant mold growth yourself, as improper handling can aerosolize more spores. A professional inspection with surface or air sampling, analyzed by a microbiology lab, can identify the mold species and the extent of the contamination, which is crucial for effective remediation and for your family's health.