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19 March 2024

Bug is in the air – do you get that 'irritation' in your throat?

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By Amal Al Jabry

Have you been feeling under the weather lately?

Speaking to Emirates 24|7, local medical expert Dr S M Anees, Specialist Pediatrician at Medcare Hospital Dubai, says that there is a definite link with the weather change and viral infections.

He said, "There is a clear connection that leads to general symptoms that start off with the common cold, stuffy nose and coughs, and then leading to headaches, dizziness, and fever, and at later stages followed by diarrhea, nausea, vomiting as well as rashes at times.”

The changing climate has been noticeable as we draw closer to the winter months, particularly evident in the evenings where the humidity has also dropped a few levels.

One recovered resident recently fell prey to the hot and cold season.

Nelly-Jean R said, “I was unusually dizzy and very warm a few days back, and I was worried that maybe my blood sugar or blood pressure was bad, so I got myself checked.”

She continued, “Blood pressure was normal, so was my sugar levels and temperature, but I was still dizzy and nauseated, by then the doctor knew it was related to a virus that I had caught. I’m much better now after the medication.”

Another resident who is currently recovering after catching the symptoms, Amna AM, said she will be focusing on maintaining a stronger immune system from now on.

“Last weekend, I was feverish, experienced diarrhea, and vomiting. I was immediately taken to the hospital and I was tended to pretty quickly because the doctor knew what had happened.”

She added, “Several tests came out to be normal, and the doctor explained that I fell vulnerable to the weather change. I’m already watching my food and water intake and have started exercising so I don’t catch such viruses easily in future.  Doctors advised that I take proper rest and drink plenty of warm fluids after being treated."

But can having a strong immune system help avoid being a victim of climate change illnesses?

Dr Anees says children in particular are quick to catch such viruses, but it’s not because their immune system is ‘weak’.

“Their immune system is only just developing, so we can’t call it weak as its still being built up, and when they go to school they can easily catch airborne viruses if they’re exposed to them, especially children upto 5 years of age.”

The doctor says it’s a different case for adults.

“It all depends on the individual’s immune system and their susceptibility to catching illnesses.”

He continues, “So the best thing is to try to keep your immune system strong, eat healthy, exercise regularly, and most importantly, washing your hands frequently especially in public places.”

(Home page image courtesy Shutterstock)