I currently know 7 people who are at home, bedridden and sick, which means it’s officially flu season in the UAE. Yup, that time of the year has finally come again when tissues, masks, and hand sanitisers become our everyday essentials. Don’t worry, though, I’ve got you covered with a simple guide to understanding the flu, how it spreads, and most importantly, how you can protect yourself and your loved ones. Keep reading for all the important details you need to know during this time.
Also read: UAE’s Next Public Holiday Is In Less Than 12 Weeks!
What Is Seasonal Flu?
Seasonal influenza, or simply “the flu,” is a respiratory infection caused by influenza viruses that tend to circulate at certain times of the year. These viruses belong to the Orthomyxoviridae family and are grouped into three types: A, B, and C. The good news? For most people, the flu usually goes away on its own within a week. But for others (especially those at higher risk) it can become serious and even require hospitalisation.
How Do You Know If You Have The Flu?
The flu often sneaks in with symptoms that range from mild to more intense. Here’s what to watch out for:
- Fever and cough
- Headaches
- Muscle and joint pain
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Sore throat
- Fatigue and overall body weakness
- Vomiting or diarrhea (especially in younger kids)
Most of these symptoms ease on their own, but if you fall into a high-risk category, the illness can hit harder.
Who’s At Higher Risk?
Some groups are more vulnerable to flu complications, so extra care is needed for:
- Pregnant women (any stage of pregnancy)
- Children under 5 years old
- The elderly
- People with chronic health conditions like heart, lung, kidney, or liver issues
- Healthcare workers who are constantly exposed to patients
How The Flu Spreads
Flu viruses love to travel fast, and here’s how they usually spread:
- Direct transmission: When someone coughs, sneezes, or even talks, tiny droplets carry the virus through the air.
- Indirect transmission: Touching contaminated surfaces or hands, then rubbing your eyes, nose, or mouth.
The incubation period (the time from catching the virus to feeling sick) is usually around two days but can range between one and four days.
Diagnosing & Treating The Flu
Doctors usually confirm seasonal flu through lab tests, but most people don’t need hospital visits unless symptoms are severe.
- For low-risk individuals: Rest at home, stay hydrated, and take medicines to ease fever or pain. Most importantly, avoid going out to stop spreading it further.
- For high-risk individuals: A doctor may suggest additional treatments depending on your health condition.
Prevention Is Always Better Than Cure
Here’s the golden rule: prevention is your best defense against the flu.
- Get your flu vaccine (more on that below)
- Wash and sanitize your hands regularly
- Cover your mouth when sneezing or coughing
- Avoid close contact with people who are unwell
- Resist touching your face unnecessarily
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces
- If you feel unwell, stay home and rest to protect others
The Flu Vaccine Explained
The flu shot is an inactivated vaccine (it contains a killed virus) and is usually given in the arm. It’s safe for everyone from 6 months old and above.
The vaccine is especially important for:
- Children aged 6 months to 5 years
- Pregnant women at any stage
- The elderly
- People with chronic health conditions
- Healthcare workers
- Pilgrims or those frequently in crowded settings
When Should You Get Vaccinated?
The best time is every year in September or early winter, right before flu season kicks in. But if you miss that window, don’t worry, you can still get vaccinated later since the flu can peak at different times of the year.
It takes about two weeks after the shot for your body to build protection, so the earlier you get it, the better.
Is The Vaccination Safe?
Absolutely! Flu vaccines have been used safely for over 60 years and are trusted worldwide. Side effects, if any, are usually mild and go away in a couple of days. These can include:
- Redness or swelling at the injection site
- Mild fever
- Headache
- Muscle aches
- Nausea
Where Can You Get The Vaccine In Dubai?
Flu vaccines are widely available at both government and private healthcare centers across Dubai. Just book an appointment, roll up your sleeve, and you’re good to go.
The flu might be common, but with the right precautions, especially getting your vaccine, you can keep yourself and those around you safe this season! And if you know anyone around you with the symptoms above, it’s best you send them to the doctor for a quick checkup.
