By dubailife 
Paediatric Influenza Cases Surge in Dubai Due to Weather Fluctuations
Healthcare experts in Dubai have reported a significant increase in the number of paediatric patients visiting clinics with influenza symptoms. This surge is attributed to the rapid temperature fluctuations experienced across the UAE in recent weeks.
In early October, Dubai witnessed a sudden dip in temperatures, accompanied by heavy rain, thunder, and lightning, which marked an abrupt seasonal change. Medical professionals have noted that such weather transitions often trigger a rise in health issues, particularly respiratory infections, allergies, and viral illnesses.
“There has been a noticeable increase in seasonal cold and influenza cases among school children as the weather cools down,” said Dr. Ignatius Edwin D’Souza, consultant paediatrician and chair of paediatrics and neonatology at Thumbay University Hospital. “Children spending more time indoors in close proximity to infected peers is contributing to the spread of viruses. We have observed around a 30 per cent rise in patient visits, with about 100 to 150 children each week presenting with symptoms such as coughs, fevers, and colds.”
Dr. D’Souza highlighted that many of these cases tested positive for Influenza A, a considerable jump from previous months when cases were relatively low.
Experts explain that sudden shifts in temperature, common during seasonal transitions in Dubai, often exacerbate respiratory issues such as sinusitis, bronchitis, and rhinitis. The dry and dusty environment further irritates the airways, leaving children more vulnerable to viral infections like the flu.
“We’re seeing a sharp rise in cold and flu cases among schoolchildren in Dubai as cooler weather sets in,” added Dr. Saad Aziz, paediatrics specialist at Medeor Hospital, Abu Dhabi. “Common symptoms include runny noses, congestion, sore throats, coughing, sneezing, fevers, headaches, and muscle aches. The virus spreads quickly in schools, especially when preventive measures like proper hygiene and vaccinations are not followed.”
Children frequently present with high fevers, reaching up to 40°C (104°F), along with persistent coughs, sore throats, and body aches. Despite early recognition of symptoms, many parents still send their children to school, inadvertently contributing to the spread of the virus within educational institutions.
Dr. Jadeer Akkaparambil, a specialist in internal medicine at Medcare Hospital Sharjah, shared that over half of the patients seen this month have displayed flu-like symptoms, including rhinitis, high fevers, and body pain. Some patients also reported gastrointestinal issues like vomiting and diarrhea, which are less common but still associated with seasonal influenza.
“The flu virus primarily spreads through person-to-person contact, but it can also be transmitted by touching contaminated surfaces,” Dr. Akkaparambil explained. “The best way to prevent infection is by receiving the annual flu vaccine. It’s also essential to maintain hygiene by regularly washing hands with soap and using alcohol-based hand sanitizers.”
As Dubai continues to experience fluctuating temperatures, healthcare professionals urge residents to take preventive measures seriously, especially with the cooler months approaching. Vaccinations, proper hygiene, and timely medical attention can help curb the spread of seasonal influenza and keep children healthy throughout the season.
Source : Khaleejtimes