Mold exposure causing my kids' cough?« Back to Previous Page

Yes, mold exposure is a very likely cause of your children's persistent coughs and sore throats, especially given your description of the damp, windowless storage room and the visible growth on fabrics. In Dubai's climate, indoor mold is a common trigger for respiratory irritation, as high humidity and constant AC use can create ideal conditions for its growth, particularly in sealed, poorly ventilated spaces.

Your first step is to isolate the contaminated items. Seal the moldy clothes and blankets in plastic bags and remove them from your living area immediately to prevent further spore dispersal. Do not attempt to clean these items yourself, as improper handling can aerosolize the spores and worsen the problem.

Next, address the room itself. Keep the door closed and avoid using the room until it can be professionally assessed. The persistent dampness suggests a deeper issue, potentially from a hidden plumbing leak or severe condensation, which is common in storage areas here.

For your children's health, a professional indoor environmental assessment is strongly recommended. A certified inspector can identify the mold species—which is critical, as some types are more problematic than others—and locate the moisture source. They use tools like moisture meters and thermal cameras to find hidden problems that aren't visible. The inspection will provide a clear remediation plan, which is essential for resolving the issue safely and completely. In the meantime, improving whole-home ventilation can help, but it will not solve an active infestation.