UAE doctors advise residents to ‘wear masks’ when flying as holiday travel takes off – News

Covid cases are on the decline, but other viruses like influenza and RSV also affect people’s health

Face masks are no longer mandatory, but are recommended to protect society from viruses such as influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

Emirati doctors are advising passengers to wear face masks, especially when transiting at airports and while sitting on planes.

With schools closed today, many residents will be traveling through international airports in large numbers during the holidays.

Dr Mitchelle Lolly, a specialist pulmonologist at Al Jahoud Airport Road, Dubai Prime Hospital, said: “Passengers should wear masks in flight because social distancing is minimal in flight. It’s going to be extended. In groups of people and on planes, try not to spend more than 10 to 15 minutes eating because people aren’t wearing masks[during that time].”

Covid cases are on the decline, but other viruses such as influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) also affect people’s health.

She added: “Based on our current experience, we have seen a sharp rise in flu cases after the relaxation of the mask rule. With events such as the FIFA World Cup, Christmas and New Years approaching, there will be many parties, gatherings, fan areas, which will help us to understand the situation.” Will make individuals susceptible to both Covid and non-Covid viruses, resulting in a sharp rise in infections.These infections, along with secondary bacterial infections that can lead to pneumonia and bronchitis, pose a health threat especially to the elderly and children under the age of two. “

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Dr Alaa Zedan, a specialist in internal medicine at Burjeel Hospital in Dubai, said: “Wearing a mask on a flight is no longer mandatory. Many people are complacent about wearing a mask because it is no longer mandatory and with the decline in Covid-19 cases. However, it’s best to take precautions, especially in enclosed spaces like airplanes. It’s flu season.”

“Studies have shown that wearing a mask has a synergistic effect, meaning that it reduces the spread of respiratory illnesses from one person to another. Wearing a mask while traveling can limit the spread of such illnesses to socially vulnerable groups, including those with existing disease, the elderly, or people with complex diseases or comorbidities.”

“While wearing masks in the community can reduce the spread of respiratory illnesses, everyone has a responsibility not to spread illness to another person. If you have any respiratory illness, try to avoid travel,” Zedan added.

Healthcare professionals are emphasizing the practice of hand hygiene and proper cough and cold etiquette for all as much as possible.

Dr Raiza Hameed, a respiratory specialist at Bur Dubai Aster Clinic, said: “During air travel, a person sits in a closed environment with many other people for several hours, and the chances of contracting a respiratory infection are high.”

“So, we wear masks ideally to prevent these infections. Wear masks properly when traveling and carry hand sanitizer/disinfectant wipes. Masks should cover one’s nose and mouth. Consciously avoid touching things. That’s fine “Maintain social distancing and avoid removing your mask during the flight. Also, it’s a good idea to give the seats and armrests a quick scrub. Most importantly, it is imperative to make sure they are properly vaccinated. “