Flu Warning in UAE Schools: Parents Urged to Watch for Symptoms

Schools across the UAE are reminding parents to keep children at home when they develop flu-like symptoms, as influenza cases are being reported among students in different year groups.

Because children spend time together in classrooms, health experts are urging families to take simple precautions to reduce the spread of respiratory infections.

Parents should monitor symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, blocked or runny nose, body aches and tiredness. Some children may also experience vomiting or diarrhoea.

Schools Ask Sick Children to Stay Home

Schools are asking families not to send children to class when they are unwell.

Parents are also reminded to wait until a child has been free from fever for at least 24 hours without using fever-reducing medicine before returning to school.

This precaution aims to limit the spread of influenza among students, teachers and families.

Flu Can Spread Easily Among Students

Doctors say children can continue spreading the virus even when some symptoms begin to improve.

Coughing, sneezing and close contact can allow respiratory infections to pass from one child to another.

Because of this, allowing a sick child to recover fully at home can help protect classmates and other members of the school community.

Common Flu Symptoms in Children

Paediatric specialists say influenza can cause several symptoms in children.

A high fever may be followed by nasal congestion, cough and sore throat.

Other common signs can include:

• Fatigue and weakness
• Body aches
• Headache
• Reduced appetite
• Runny or blocked nose
• Vomiting or diarrhoea in some cases

Doctors note that flu can last around seven to 10 days, while tiredness and coughing may continue for longer in some children.

Parents Should Pay Attention to At-Risk Children

Parents should pay particular attention when children have underlying health conditions, including respiratory problems such as asthma.

Doctors also highlight that antiviral medicines may be considered for children with confirmed or strongly suspected influenza, particularly those at greater risk of complications.

Parents should discuss treatment options with a paediatrician rather than starting medication on their own.

Simple Steps Can Help Prevent the Spread

Families can take basic steps to reduce the chances of infection spreading at home and in schools.

Regular handwashing, covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, and avoiding close contact with people who are unwell can help reduce the spread of respiratory infections.

Parents can also encourage children to avoid sharing personal items such as cups, towels and eating utensils when someone in the household is sick.

Flu Vaccination Offers Added Protection

Doctors continue to recommend influenza vaccination as an important way to reduce the risk of serious illness.

Vaccination is particularly relevant for people who may be more vulnerable to complications from flu.

Parents who are unsure whether their child should receive the seasonal flu vaccine should speak with their healthcare provider for advice based on the child's age and medical circumstances.

When Should Parents Seek Medical Attention?

Most children with flu symptoms recover with rest, fluids and appropriate care.

However, parents should seek medical attention if a child develops a high fever, has difficulty breathing, stops eating or drinking, or becomes unusually tired or weak.

Keeping children at home while they are sick helps them recover and reduces the risk of passing the infection to classmates and other family members.