UAE: Childhood infections rise as rains cause temperatures to drop sharply, doctors say – News

Cold and humid air can make symptoms worse, health care experts say

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Rain-related illnesses are common, mainly due to the drop in temperature during wet weather. Health care experts say children are known to suffer from a variety of health problems due to winter showers.

Influenza A infections have surged, affecting the respiratory system — the nose, throat and lungs — according to doctors.

Dr Malak Shaheen, Consultant Pediatrics and Pediatric Allergy at Thumbay University Hospital, said: “Cold, humid air further exacerbates symptoms in children who are allergic or prone to allergies.”

Common infections in winter:

body changes in winter

Our airways are lined with a thin layer of fluid, and in winter, the air gets drier as temperatures start to drop.

“When we breathe in dry air, this fluid evaporates faster than usual, causing irritation and swelling that can exacerbate COPD and asthma symptoms.

“Cold weather also increases mucus production, which is the protective coating of the throat. However, the mucus caused by cold weather is thicker than normal. This can lead to airway blockage and you are also more likely to catch colds and other infections ,” said Dr Anuradha Ajesh, a pediatric specialist at MBZ Bahrain International Hospital in Abu Dhabi.

Infections requiring clinic visits:

There are several causes of respiratory infections in children. This can be due to getting wet from the rain, poor ventilation in your home or play area, poor hygiene practices, and poor nutrition. “It could be because the kids were in wet clothes for a long time, or in clothes that weren’t suitable for the cold. They could also be in contact with or have been in contact with infected adults or other children. All of these factors can lead to upper and lower respiratory tract infections. If Without immediate treatment, it can become serious,” Dr. Malak said.

Recovery from a viral infection may take up to 7 days. However, recovery may take longer if the child has a compromised immune system or is malnourished.

prevention is the best cure

Immunization plays an important role in preventing infection. The flu shot is very effective if given at the right time, but should be given between September and November. “If shots are taken after that period, the benefit is less. However, if a child has a second infection or more flu-like symptoms more than two times during the season, then a flu shot is recommended anytime,” says Dr. Malak.

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Dr. Nuran Nergiz, a family medicine specialist at Canadian Specialist Hospital in Dubai, said seasonal vaccinations are the number one way to prevent the flu. “To avoid infection, try to avoid crowds or wear a mask, wash your hands often with soap and eat a healthy diet to keep your immunity strong,” Dr. Nergiz said.

“If a patient has a cold, medications are prescribed to relieve symptoms and boost immunity. For such patients, a healthy diet and increased fluid intake are recommended, as the immune system fights the infection. In case of flu, the prescription will add Antiviral drugs to precisely target the virus,” concluded Dr. Nergiz.