UAE: Why residents are still advised to wear face masks even if it's not required

As daily Covid cases see a decline and mask rules relax, medical professionals have started seeing an increase in cases of other viral infections.

Healthcare specialists have urged residents to maintain similar precautionary measures, especially during the flu season.

“It is no surprise that as regulations have been relaxed, the number of flu cases has risen,” said Dr Nikita Singh, specialist internal medicine, Aster Clinic, Business Bay.

“It is important to remember that they are all mostly RNA viruses, including influenza, parainfluenza, respiratory syncytial virus, rhinovirus, and adenovirus. Their mode of transmission remains the same — the droplet method of infection. In addition, these viruses also proliferate during weather changes — like the transition from summer to autumn and then winter,” said Dr Singh.

Doctors also highlighted that weather changes could also be the cause behind cases of viral upper respiratory tract infections.

“Infections due to influenza, adenovirus, and many other viruses that cause the symptoms of cold, throat pain, cough, body ache, and fever,” said Dr Zaineb Sabri, internal medicine specialist, Medcare Hospital, Sharjah.

“Other diseases such as gastritis or gastroenteritis are also seen during weather and climate changes,” added Dr Sabri.

Cases of viral infections — especially amid the flu season — were comparatively lesser during the Covid-19 pandemic, doctors said.

“Ease in mask rules and other precautionary measures have led to an increase in flu infections,” said Dr Sarla Kumari, a physician at Canadian Specialist Hospital Dubai, Abu Hail.

The flu virus, particularly influenza, has three major strains. Its genetic nature also changes every year, as it adapts to environmental conditions, among other factors. It is difficult to clinically distinguish one viral infection from another, but it can be done by PCR.

“Some viruses, like the rhinovirus, stay localised in the respiratory system and cause only symptoms related to the upper respiratory tract like sore throat, pharyngitis, cold, mild fever,” said Dr Singh.

Healthcare professionals have advised residents to get vaccinated against flu and continue following hygiene practices. “We suggest everyone take precautionary measures like hand washing, avoiding crowded places and those having multiple health problems need to have the flu vaccine,” said Dr Kumari.

Dr Kumari also urged the residents to isolate if flu symptoms emerge and to consult with their doctor. “One needs to have a balanced diet rich in vitamins and a community role in the early detection of sick children in schools and nurseries. Providing early medical treatment and care plays a great role in limiting the spread of diseases.”

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