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A circular was issued following a spike in flu cases across the country recently
17 April 2019
| Last updated on 21 April 2019
Listen up parents – we have news you probably want to hear…
After two weeks off school, we’re sure many parents hoped that the back-to-school period would be a smooth one. But sadly it seems this hasn’t been the case for some families and schools recently.
Parents across the country recently received an advisory from various schools as a result of increased reports of flu cases.
The advisory, from various doctors and schools across the UAE, was shared following the reopening of schools post-Spring Break.
SEE ALSO: Residents in the UAE are being urged to get their flu shots
Schools, like ISCS Nad Al Sheba, last week shared a circular to parents warning them of a flu virus outbreak in schools across the country. The circular explained how some schools have been hit by a suspected spread of the flu virus following the return of students from the holidays.
Why has there been a flu outbreak in the UAE?
Well, it seems that the changes in weather – combined with people returning from holidays – has triggered a seasonable outbreak of flu and other illnesses.
Principal of ISCS Nad Al Seba, Naveed Iqbal, also mentioned how schools regularly implement safety measures to ensure students are protected at all times, reports Khaleej Times.
“To further promote the overall health and wellness of our students… 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.”
Schools have also warned parents to look out for any symptoms like high fever, sore throat, coughing, joint pain, vomiting and diarrhea.
What is the influenza – a.k.a the flu?
Influenza (flu) is a contagious respiratory illness which can be mild to severe resulting in serious health complications.
This depends on various factors related to the concerned person like the age, physiological/psychological well-being, poor nutritional status, pregnancy, underlying disease and medical interventions.
The period of contagiousness may extend from 1 day before showing symptoms, up to 5 to 7 days after becoming sick.
How is the flu spread?
The flu is spread mainly when someone comes in direct contact with droplets released from an ill person through coughing, sneezing or talking; or indirectly, by touching a contaminated object – knowing that based on studies human influenza viruses can survive on hard surfaces between 2 and 8 hours.
What UAE parents can do to prevent kids catching the flu
As schools have mentioned, children who show symptoms of the flu should stay at home until they recover. It is recommended that the ill should stay at home at least 24 hours after the fever is gone.
Other measures parents can take to prevent the flu spreading include:
- Teaching children to cover their nose and mouth while coughing and sneezing
- Help children to refrain from touching their eyes, nose and mouth
- Helping kids to wash their hands thoroughly and frequently
- Avoid contact with others who are sick or have been sick
- Routinely clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces
- Ensure suitable ventilation and proper indoor air quality
Taking these small actions and helping to educate little ones on how they can protect themselves and others from catching the flu can help to ensure everyone is protected this season.
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