Should I take my kids to ER for persistent cough?« Back to Previous Page

After the rain last month, I noticed a persistent cough in both of my kids that won’t seem to go away. The doctor’s office is closed on weekends, and it feels like every clinic in Dubai has the flu right now. How urgent should I consider this? Should I take them to an emergency room or wait until Monday to see someone?
Posted by Jennifer Martin
Asked on February 23, 2026 3:00 pm
Absolutely critical to approach the situation methodically. Persistent coughs in children can indeed be alarming, especially given your current context of rainy weather and potential respiratory irritants that might have increased due to humidity and water intrusion.

In Dubai, we've seen a spike in respiratory issues post-rain events, often linked to mold growth in homes and buildings. Given the circumstances, it would be prudent to consider the following steps:

Firstly, if symptoms are severe or worsening despite home remedies like saline sprays and increased fluid intake, heading to an Emergency Room (ER) may be necessary for immediate assessment. The ER can provide a broader range of diagnostic tools such as X-rays and blood tests that might not be available at walk-in clinics.

Secondly, given the current situation where all medical centers are overwhelmed with flu-like cases, you could also consider contacting your pediatrician via phone or online consultation services if possible. Many clinics now offer virtual visits which can help in assessing whether an ER visit is necessary.

Additionally, it would be wise to conduct a professional indoor air quality inspection by calling 800-MOLDS or emailing hello@saniservice.com. This step could reveal hidden sources of irritants such as mold spores or dust mites that might be exacerbating the coughs. In Dubai, humidity levels can sometimes reach uncomfortable heights after rainfall events, making a thorough assessment of your home's environment essential.

Bear in mind that persistent coughs in children can also indicate more serious conditions such as asthma or pneumonia, which require prompt medical attention. If your kids show signs like fever, difficulty breathing, or if the cough is accompanied by a high-pitched wheeze, an urgent visit to the ER would be recommended.

Remember, while waiting for weekend appointments might seem daunting, most hospitals maintain emergency departments open 24/7 specifically for such cases. Your health concerns are valid, and prioritizing your children's well-being through proactive steps like these can prevent potential complications down the line.

Stay vigilant, seek professional advice when needed, and keep a close eye on any changes in their condition. Wishing you and your family good health!
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on February 25, 2026 5:16 pm