Is mold in my villa affecting my daughters' helath??« Back to Previous Page

Given the dampness since the rains and the symptoms your daughters are experiencing, it is very plausible the mold is affecting their health. Persistent runny noses and coughs are common reactions to mold exposure, especially in children whose respiratory systems are more sensitive. The species matters; the black mold could be Cladosporium (typically allergenic) or the more concerning Stachybotrys, which requires professional identification.

Your first step is to stop the exposure immediately. Do not attempt to clean significant growth yourself, as disturbing it releases spores. For a contained area under silicone, a certified professional can safely remove the sealant and the underlying mold, then identify and repair the moisture source—likely water intrusion from the rains or chronic condensation. In Dubai’s climate, indoor humidity from AC overcompensation or poor ventilation often sustains mold long after a initial leak.

For a villa with a history of dampness and current health symptoms, a professional inspection is strongly advised. They will use moisture meters and thermal cameras to find hidden dampness in walls and under floors that you cannot see. They should also take air and surface samples for lab analysis to identify the exact mold types and concentrations, which dictates the remediation protocol. This diagnostic approach is critical, as simply wiping visible mold often misses the root problem.

Until the assessment, improve ventilation in that bathroom. Run the exhaust fan during and for 30 minutes after showers and consider a temporary dehumidifier to lower the ambient humidity, making the environment less hospitable for further growth.