Doctors in the UAE have observed a significant rise in pediatric patients presenting with influenza symptoms, largely attributed to the recent rapid temperature changes experienced in the region. In early October, the UAE saw a drop in temperatures accompanied by heavy rain, thunder, and lightning during the first week. Healthcare professionals have emphasized that many people face health challenges during seasonal transitions, often due to weather changes, allergens, or viral infections.
“There is a noticeable increase in seasonal colds and influenza cases among school children as the weather cools. This rise is associated with children spending more time indoors with infected peers, facilitating the spread of viruses. We have seen approximately a 30% increase in patient visits, with around 100 to 150 children coming to the clinic each week with complaints of coughs, fevers, and colds,” said Dr. Ignatiius Edwin D’souza, consultant pediatrician and chair of pediatrics and neonatology at Thumbay University Hospital.
“Many of these cases test positive for Influenza A, which is a considerable jump compared to previous months when the numbers were much lower,” he added. Medics explained that sudden temperature changes can exacerbate respiratory issues such as rhinitis, sinusitis, and bronchitis. Moreover, the dry, dusty environment often irritates the airways, making individuals more susceptible to viral infections like the flu.
“We are noticing an increase in seasonal cold and flu cases among school children as the weather changes and cooler months set in. Children are showing symptoms such as runny noses, congestion, sore throats, coughing, sneezing, fevers, fatigue, headaches, and occasionally muscle aches. These viruses spread quickly in schools, especially when basic preventive measures are not adhered to,” said Dr. Saad Aziz, pediatric specialist at Medeor Hospital, Abu Dhabi.
Common complaints from these patients often include high fever, with many children experiencing temperatures reaching up to 40°C (104°F). Along with fever, persistent coughing, runny or stuffy noses, sore throats, and body aches are frequently reported. Doctors noted that while parents often recognize these early symptoms, some children still attend school, contributing to the spread of the virus within school communities.
“More than 50% of the patients visiting our facility this month exhibit these (flu-like) symptoms. Mainly, patients are presenting with cold, rhinitis, high-grade fever, body pain, and headache. Some patients also report gastrointestinal symptoms like vomiting, stomach upset, and diarrhea. The seasonal influenza primarily spreads from person to person. Influenza can also spread if a person touches a surface contaminated by an affected individual.”
He added: “The best way to prevent catching the influenza is by getting vaccinated against the influenza through the annual flu vaccine. Maintain hygiene at all times by using alcohol-based hand sanitizers and washing your hands with soap and water.”
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