Boy, two, ‘ killed by mouldy f lat’
Parents begged landlords for help
A TODDLER’S death has been blamed on mould in his family’s rented flat.
The family of Awaab Ishak had pleaded with doctors and housing bosses for help with the problem because he had trouble breathing.
Just two days after being taken to hospital, the twoyear-old’s condition worsened and he died four days before Christmas 2020.
Philip Lumb, who carried out a post-mortem examination, discovered ‘severe swelling’ of his airway and throat. Tests also found fungus in his blood, an inquest heard.
The Home Office pathologist told Rochdale coroner’s court that exposure to fun
gus ‘appeared to be the most plausible explanation – or the only explanation’ for Awaab’s death – ‘therefore, it follows that the death was related to chronic exposure to fungus’.
Awaab lived in a block owned and managed by Rochdale Boroughwide Housing. His father, Faisal Abdullah, sent emails with photos showing the mould to the housing association before his son’s death.
But while repairs were carried out – including fixing a leak – the mould problem had not been resolved, he said.
Awaab was taken to Rochdale Urgent Care Centre on December 19, 2020, and transferred to Royal Oldham Hospi
‘Most plausible explanation’
tal where he was treated for croup and discharged the following morning.
But on December 21, Awaab suffered cardiac arrest and died while being taken back to the hospital.
Professor Malcolm Richardson, a mycology expert who visited the flat ten days later, discovered fungal allergens in the air as well as mould on the ceiling and walls.
The housing ombudsman said landlords should face tougher laws on damp and mould. The hearing continues.