Doctors are likening the effects of severe influenza to the sensation of ‘being hit by a truck.’ This analogy was provided by Dr. Walid Abuhammour, the head of the Infectious Diseases Department at Al Jalila Children's Hospital. He made this remark during the launch of the annual national seasonal influenza awareness campaign by the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) on Monday.
Medical professionals emphasized that seasonal influenza is highly contagious, spreading rapidly through coughing or sneezing. They also reiterated that vaccination remains the most effective method to prevent the flu. Influenza is often trivialized as merely a cough and fever, but medical experts stressed that it can result in severe illness or even death, especially among high-risk groups. Dr. Walid pointed out that approximately 4 million people worldwide suffer from severe influenza annually, with hospital treatment being expensive.
He explained, “The most significant misconception is that influenza is just a simple cold. However, it is far more serious. Patients with severe influenza often describe the experience as ‘being hit by a truck.’ Those with severe strains may be confined to bed for seven to ten days and could require ICU admission.” He further added that influenza can exacerbate chronic conditions and, in severe cases, lead to complications such as pneumonia or sepsis. He urged individuals with pre-existing medical conditions or severe symptoms to seek immediate medical attention.
Despite the seriousness of the flu, Dr. Walid reassured, “It’s a serious condition, but it is preventable,” emphasizing that while the flu should not be taken lightly, there are effective ways to avoid it. Seasonal influenza spreads easily, particularly in crowded places like schools and nursing homes. When an infected person coughs or sneezes, droplets containing the virus are released into the air, potentially infecting those nearby. The virus can also spread through hands contaminated with the virus. To reduce transmission, individuals should cover their mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing and wash their hands frequently.
In temperate climates, flu outbreaks typically occur during the winter, while in tropical regions, influenza can cause sporadic outbreaks throughout the year. The incubation period—the time from infection to the onset of symptoms—usually lasts around two days but can range from one to four days. Doctors underlined that vaccination is crucial for enhancing prevention and reducing complications associated with the flu. Dr. Abdullah Al Rasasi, head of the Preventive Medicine Department at the Dubai Health Authority (DHA), stressed that the DHA is dedicated to supporting the national campaign to ensure community health security and bolster efforts to prevent various diseases, including seasonal influenza.
Al Rasasi added, “DHA plans to implement a series of programs and activities to support the campaign’s goals of reaching as many people as possible to promote public health as a shared responsibility between health authorities and the community.”
