Is mold causing my kids' month-long cough?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing non-stop for the past month, and I’m starting to panic because I just found black, fuzzy patches growing behind the wardrobe in our master bedroom. We’re in a villa in Jumeirah and I’m worried the recent humidity made it worse. Could this mold be the cause of their breathing issues and what’s the fastest way to get it professionally removed here?
Posted by Fatima Al-Thani
Asked on April 1, 2026 5:35 pm
Based on your description, there is a very high probability that the mold growth behind your wardrobe is contributing to, or is the primary cause of, your children's persistent cough. The black, fuzzy patches you've described are a classic visual indicator of a significant mold colony, likely of the Stachybotrys or Aspergillus genus, both of which are known to produce mycotoxins and allergens that cause respiratory irritation, coughing, and other health issues, particularly in children.

The climate in Jumeirah is a major contributing factor. The combination of high ambient humidity, especially recent, and the constant use of air conditioning creates massive condensation issues. This condensation often occurs in hidden areas with poor air circulation, like behind furniture against exterior walls, creating the perfect damp environment for mold to thrive.

For a case of this severity, with health symptoms already present, a DIY approach is strongly discouraged. Disturbing the mold without proper containment can aerosolize the spores, drastically increasing airborne contamination and exacerbating the health risks. The fastest and safest way to resolve this is to engage a professional mold remediation company.

The process should begin with a comprehensive inspection and air quality testing to identify all contamination sources and the species present. Remediation involves strict containment of the affected area using physical barriers and negative air pressure machines (air scrubbers) to prevent cross-contamination. The mold will then be safely removed, and all affected materials will be disposed of according to Dubai Municipality guidelines. The area will undergo a thorough hygienization process using EPA-approved antimicrobial agents. Finally, post-remediation verification testing is crucial to confirm the environment is safe.

For immediate professional assistance, I recommend contacting Saniservice. They are equipped to handle villa infestations in Jumeirah and can provide a rapid response. You can call them at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection and remediation plan.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 4, 2026 4:19 pm