Release date: Friday, August 23, 2024, 3:28 PM
Last updated: Friday, August 23, 2024, 9:40 p.m.
As families across the UAE return home from summer holidays, health experts have expressed concern about potential health risks to children due to changes in weather and environment.
Children who travelled with their families from all over the world were exposed to different climates and were more susceptible to illnesses as they adapted to the UAE’s climate.
As the country’s weather transitions from hot summer to cooler autumn temperatures, the change in weather may be a concern for children who have traveled to cooler or warmer climates. Doctors say the return to the UAE’s still-warm conditions, combined with the onset of cooler nights, could lead to illness.
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“Exposure to different climates and environments while on holiday can increase the risk of illness. Children’s immune systems may not be fully adapted to the new pathogens and environmental conditions they encounter abroad,” said Dr Amjad Muhammad Haider, consultant paediatrician at Dubai International Modern Hospital, adding that the stress of travel, changes in daily life and exposure to different weather patterns could make children more susceptible to infections.
Dr. Amjad Muhammad Haider
Common illnesses
Common health problems after returning from international travel include respiratory infections, gastrointestinal problems, skin diseases, parasitic infections, jet lag, and fatigue.
“Common illnesses include colds, acute pharyngitis and coughs, which can occasionally progress to acute bronchitis and pneumonia. Changes in diet, such as consuming unhealthy or undercooked foods, can lead to gastrointestinal problems such as acute gastroenteritis,” said Dr Noher Mustafa, paediatric specialist at Medeor Hospital in Abu Dhabi. She explained that acute gastroenteritis can lead to more severe symptoms such as abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhoea and even dysentery.
Dr. Noher Mustafa
For adults, and especially children, jet lag can disrupt daily life and have an impact on health: “Time zone changes and long travel times can lead to sleep disorders and general fatigue, which can weaken the immune system,” said Dr. Haider.
The importance of vaccinations
Dr. Noar said while vaccinations are recommended before traveling to certain areas, post-travel vaccinations may also be necessary if children have been exposed to certain diseases.
Dr Fiaz Ahmed, an infection control specialist at Tumbay University Hospital, stressed the importance of the seasonal flu vaccine. “As winter approaches, there is an increase in respiratory infections such as influenza and pneumonia,” Dr Fiaz said, adding, “The seasonal flu vaccine helps protect the body against common strains. The RSV vaccine is also recommended, especially for young children who are at high risk.”
“To strengthen their immunity, it is important to ensure that children receive all mandatory and optional vaccines, especially the influenza vaccine at the beginning of winter. It is also important to raise awareness among parents about the importance of vaccination,” Dr Fiaz stressed.
Dr May Shaker, general practitioner for immunisation at Zulekha Hospital, echoed the same advice: “We encourage parents to vaccinate their children against the seasonal flu vaccine, as well as mothers, fathers and infants aged six months and above.”
Advice for Parents
Dr Shaker also urged parents to get their children vaccinated before school starts. “The optimal time would be early September. For those children who didn’t get vaccinated, there will be adverse effects on those who did get vaccinated,” she said.
Dr. Mae Shaker
Parents are advised to keep an eye on any changes in their children’s behaviour or health, particularly during the first week after returning to the UAE. It is also important to ensure children drink plenty of fluids and continue to eat a balanced diet to allow their bodies to recover and adapt.
“Make sure your child gets plenty of rest, especially if they are jet lagged or feeling fatigued. If your child shows any signs of illness, contact your healthcare provider,” Dr. Haider said.
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