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

Based on the symptoms you've described and the discovery of black mould, it is highly probable that the mould is the primary cause of your children's persistent cough. In the UAE's humid climate, especially with the constant use of air conditioning which can create significant temperature differentials and condensation, interior walls are extremely susceptible to dampness and subsequent mould growth.

The type of black mould you've found, likely Stachybotrys chartarum or Aspergillus niger, produces mycotoxins and spores that are potent respiratory irritants and allergens. Children are particularly vulnerable due to their developing immune systems and higher respiratory rates. A non-stop cough for three weeks is a classic symptom of prolonged exposure to these microbial volatile organic compounds (MVOCs).

The fastest way to deal with this is a two-step process. First, do not attempt to clean it yourself. Disturbing the mould without proper containment will aerosolize a massive amount of spores, drastically increasing your children's exposure and potentially contaminating other areas of the home. For a situation involving health symptoms and hidden growth behind furniture, professional assessment and remediation are not just recommended but essential.

Our certified inspectors use moisture meters and thermal imaging cameras to identify the exact source of the dampness—whether it's a hidden pipe leak, capillary rise, or condensation from AC units—and then take air and surface samples to identify the species and spore count. This is crucial for determining the correct remediation protocol, which involves engineering controls like negative air pressure chambers and HEPA filtration to safely remove the biofilm as per Dubai Municipality guidelines.

For the health of your family, I strongly advise you to seek a professional inspection and hygienization service immediately. Contact our team at Saniservice for a comprehensive assessment. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule a visit. Our experts will identify the moisture source, safely eradicate the mould, and provide solutions to prevent recurrence.