Is the mold causing my kids' cough and how to remove?« Back to Previous Page

The black mold you've found is a likely cause of the persistent coughing. In Dubai's climate, exterior walls are common condensation points due to the extreme temperature differential between the air-conditioned interior and the hot, humid exterior. This creates the damp environment where mold thrives. The spores become airborne and act as irritants, particularly for children, often triggering allergic reactions, congestion, and coughing.

For proper removal, do not attempt to scrub or wipe it yourself, as this will aerosolize the spores and worsen the problem. Isolate the area by closing the bedroom door and placing a damp towel at the base. For a small patch (under one square foot), a solution of white vinegar or a specialized mold remover can be carefully applied to kill the growth. However, given its location behind furniture and the associated health symptoms, a professional inspection is strongly advised to assess the extent within the wall cavity.

The long-term solution requires addressing the moisture source. This typically involves improving ventilation in the room and potentially treating the exterior wall with anti-condensation coatings. A professional assessment can identify the specific cause and the most effective remediation strategy, which should include containment procedures and HEPA filtration to prevent cross-contamination during the removal process. Verifying the mold type through a lab test can also provide clarity on the health risk.