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Covid-19: Doctors urge UAE residents against summer break, Eid Al Adha gatherings

Dubai - The UAE has seen a fresh surge in Covid cases since the Eid-Al-Fitr holidays.

With summer vacations around the corner, authorities and doctors have warned people against gatherings, while urging them to follow Covid-19 protocols.

The UAE has seen a fresh surge in Covid-19 cases since the Eid-Al-Fitr holidays in mid-May However, this rise is much lower than that witnessed post-New Year.

Experts believe one of main reasons for the spike are social gatherings and complacency among people who are not following precautionary measures. “Residents must put the brakes on social interactions. The virus is airborne in nature at close distances and closed spaces,” Dr. Salvin George, Specialist Internal Medicine, Medcare Hospital, Al Safa told Khaleej Times.

As schools close for the long summer vacations, experts have urged residents to strictly avoid crowding, while wearing masks at all times and spend time with their family, instead of meeting up with friends and groups. “Outdoor activities are safest for families. It would help relieve the monotony and mental stress of being indoors, due to the pandemic,” Dr George added.

Dr Sunil Vyas, pulmunology specialist, Aster Hospital, Al Qusais, said: “Outdoor activities, especially early in the morning, can be an option during the vacations.”

Dr Abdul Aneez, medical director, Medeor Hospital, advised parents and guardians to find creative ways to keep their children engaged. “Parents can involve children in various household activities to help them spend time fruitfully,” Dr Aneez said.

Spike in UAE cases after Eid Al Fitr

He also advised people to be careful while inviting guests at home during the vacations and Eid holidays which are likely to fall around July 19.

“Limit visitors to your homes, and preferably interact only with close family members. Also, ensure that everyone has received the Covid-19 vaccine, and encourage others to receive their jabs before the start of the summer vacations,” Dr Aneez added.

Doctors urged residents to get their vaccination at the earliest. “We still have people who have not been vaccinated or have not received both doses. We have seen patients who received the vaccine six months back, contracting Covid-19. It does make sense to take a booster dose,” Dr.Sunil added.

ayaz@khaleejtimes