Is black mold causing our persistent cough and allergies?« Back to Previous Page

Based on your description, the black mould found behind your wardrobe is very likely the cause of your family's persistent cough and allergy symptoms. The high humidity in Dubai, combined with a hidden moisture source like an AC leak, creates an ideal environment for mould growth, and the spores it releases are a common respiratory irritant.

You should arrange for professional remediation promptly. In a humid climate, mould colonies can expand significantly in a matter of weeks. Do not attempt to clean a large patch yourself, as improper scrubbing can aerosolize a massive amount of spores, worsening your indoor air quality and exposure. A proper remediation involves isolating the area, using HEPA filtration to capture spores, and addressing the root cause—the AC leak—to prevent immediate recurrence.

Regarding a doctor's visit, it is a sensible precaution, especially for your children. Inform the physician about the duration of symptoms and the confirmed mould discovery. They can assess for any secondary infections or heightened allergic responses that may require treatment. There is no specific "mould test" a doctor will run, but they can evaluate the symptoms caused by the exposure.

For the remediation, ensure the company you hire provides a post-cleaning verification, such as independent air quality testing, to confirm spore counts have returned to safe levels. This is a standard practice for reputable providers in the UAE and is your assurance that the problem has been resolved.