Is mold causing our sickness and what to do?« Back to Previous Page

Yes, the mold you've found is very likely contributing to your family's persistent coughing and allergy symptoms. The damp smell confirms active growth, and the timing aligns with Dubai's cooler, more humid winter months when condensation inside AC units and on cold surfaces becomes common.

Your first step is to isolate the area. Move all clothing and items away from the affected closet corner and keep the closet door closed to prevent spores from circulating. Do not attempt to clean it with bleach or other household products, as improper scrubbing can aerosolize the spores and worsen the problem.

Given the health symptoms and visible growth, a professional inspection is strongly recommended. In Dubai, a proper inspection involves more than a visual check; it includes moisture mapping to find the water source (like a condensation line leak or external seepage) and air quality testing to identify spore types and concentrations. This is critical, as the species—like Aspergillus or Cladosporium—determines the potential health risk and required remediation steps.

Until an inspector arrives, ensure your AC is running consistently to control humidity and ventilate the room when outdoor humidity is lower. Look for any visible water stains on walls or ceilings near the closet, as these can help the inspector pinpoint the issue. Companies with their own microbiology labs can provide the fastest turnaround on sample analysis, which is essential for a targeted and effective remediation plan.