As families across the UAE return home from their summer holidays, health experts are raising concerns about the potential health risks for children due to the change in weather and environment. Children who travelled with their families from various parts of the world were exposed to different climates, making them more susceptible to illnesses as they adjust back to the UAE’s weather. While the weather in the country is shifting from the summer heat to a cooler autumn, the fluctuation in weather may be concerning for children who have travelled to regions with cooler or more temperate climates. The return to the UAE’s still-warm environment, coupled with the onset of cooler evenings, can lead to illnesses, according to doctors.
According to Dr Amjad Mouhammad Haider, a consultant paediatrician at International Modern Hospital Dubai, exposure to various climates or environments during holidays can raise the risk of illness. Children’s immune systems may not be fully adapted to new pathogens or environmental conditions they encounter abroad. The stress of travel, changes in routine, and exposure to different weather patterns can make children more susceptible to infections. Common health issues after returning from travels abroad include respiratory infections, gastrointestinal issues, skin conditions, parasitic infections, jet lag, and fatigue.
Dr Noher Moustafa, a paediatrics specialist at Medeor Hospital in Abu Dhabi, highlighted some common illnesses that children may experience after returning from travels abroad. These illnesses include the common cold, acute pharyngitis, coughs, acute bronchitis, pneumonia, and gastrointestinal issues like acute gastroenteritis. Changes in diet, such as consuming unhealthy or undercooked food, can lead to these gastrointestinal issues, causing symptoms such as abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhoea, or more severe conditions like dysentery. Jet lag can also have an impact on children’s routine and health, leading to sleep disturbances and general fatigue, which may weaken the immune system.
It is recommended to get vaccinated before travelling to certain areas, and post-travel vaccinations might also be necessary in some cases if the child was exposed to specific diseases. Dr Fiaz Ahamed, an infection control specialist at Thumbay University Hospital, emphasized the importance of the seasonal flu vaccine as winter approaches. The seasonal flu vaccine helps protect the body against common strains, and the RSV vaccine is recommended for young children at higher risk. Dr May Shaker, a general practitioner in vaccination at Zulekha Hospital, advised parents to give the seasonal flu vaccine not only to children but also to the mother, father, and infants older than six months. It is crucial to raise awareness among parents about the importance of immunization and to ensure that children receive all mandatory and optional vaccines, especially the flu vaccine.
Parents are urged to keep an eye on changes in their child’s behavior or health, especially in the first week after returning to the UAE. It is important to ensure that the child is well-hydrated and continues to eat a balanced diet so their body can recover and adjust. Allowing the child plenty of time to rest, especially if they are experiencing jet lag or fatigue, is essential. If the child shows signs of illness, consulting a healthcare provider is recommended. Dr Shaker also advised parents to get the vaccines before starting school, preferably at the beginning of September. Failure to receive the vaccine can have a negative impact on children who did not get vaccinated.Overall, taking precautions such as immunization, monitoring changes in health, and ensuring rest and a healthy diet can help protect children from potential health risks after returning from travels abroad.
