The reopening of schools after the spring break in the UAE saw several students in absence following a spike of flu cases at hospitals in the country.
Schools, such as The International School of Creative Science, sent circulars that warn parents of a suspected flu virus outbreak as students return from their holidays.
In a report from Khaleej Times, ISCS Nad Al Sheba Principal Naveed Iqbal said that the school is aware of seasonal illnesses which are most likely to affect students at this time of the year but assures parents that their school is prepared with necessary precautions. “With the changes in weather as well as people coming back from their holidays, we are conscious that cases of flu and other seasonal illnesses are likely to increase and affect our students. Our health and safety measurements are implemented regularly to ensure the safety of our students at all times. To further promote the overall health and wellness of our students at the ISCS and all our other schools, we have issued certain precautions for parents to follow as a pre-emptive step and as a simple reminder of everyday hygiene measures that can be taken to maintain good health,” said Iqbal.
Know your basic preventive measures
NMC Mabuhay Clinic Specialist Pediatrician Dr. Miki Yamamoto Balin shared that students, and even adults who catch the flu often forget hygiene basics that would have essentially saved them from getting sick. “There is a rise of Influenza cases as well as other viral respiratory infections such as Respiratory Syncytial Virus Bronchiolitis. People catch the flu these days because they tend to neglect the basic preventive measures such as hand washing and cough etiquette,” said Balin.
Bluebell Medical Centre General Practitioner Dr. John Carlo Brojan warns that those who do catch the flu might have symptoms that tend to persist for weeks. “Uncomplicated flu will last from 3 to 7 days although some symptoms may persist until 2 weeks such as cough and weakness. However, People who are in high risk groups may develop complications and have a more prolonged and severe illness which requires hospitalization,” said Brojan.
Klinika Maharlika’s Dr. Heidi Regudo also adds that if there’s a household member who’s already sick, the house should be disinfected to avoid the virus from spreading. “If there’s a household member who’s sick, disinfect your house properly because the virus can stay up to 48 hours on the surface. Even the smallest respiratory droplet can be a source of infection,” said Regudo.
When should I bring my child to the hospital?
“Since Flu is the most common infection this season, keep an eye on your children. Watch out for symptoms like fever, sore throat, cough, and colds. A child can be weak looking with decrease appetite and body pains. If with any of these symptoms, please bring to the nearest clinic or hospital for an urgent assessment of your child,” advised Regudo.
Brojan stressed the importance of good hygiene and handwashing to not only maintain cleanliness, but to prevent spreading the virus as well. “Good hygiene is also very important in preventing the spread of flu. Hand washing should also be done before eating and before touching your nose, eyes and mouth. Those who are sick should stay at home until they are fever free for at least 24 hours.
Balin likewise urged parents to get their kids vaccinated in order for their kids to be protected against the alarming rise of flu cases: “The rise of flu cases is largely due to the lack of immunization owing to various misconceptions regarding the flu vaccine. Let us remember that prevention is better than treatment. It is time to get the Flu vaccine,” advised Balin.
