Dengue Fever in Dubai

Dubai’s scorching summer brings not just sky-high temperatures, but also an increased risk of catching mosquito-borne illnesses like Dengue Fever. While the flu might seem like a distant memory during the hot months, it’s important to be aware of both. Here’s a rundown on these two conditions and how to stay healthy in the UAE climate:

Dengue Fever: A Rising Threat

Dengue fever has seen a rise in cases across the UAE in recent years, with the weather patterns playing a role. The heavy rains followed by hot and humid conditions create ideal breeding grounds for the Aedes mosquito, the culprit behind Dengue transmission. This mosquito thrives in stagnant water and is most active during dawn and dusk.

Symptoms to Watch Out For:

• • Sudden high fever (up to 40°C): This is one of the most prominent signs of Dengue fever. The fever can come on suddenly and be quite high, often reaching up to 40°C (104°F).

• • Severe headache: Dengue fever can cause a severe and debilitating headache that can worsen behind the eyes.

• • Pain behind the eyes: This pain can be a distinctive symptom of Dengue fever and is often described as a throbbing or aching sensation.

• • Joint and muscle pain (often described as “breakbone” fever): This is another hallmark symptom of Dengue, causing intense pain in the joints and muscles. The pain can be so severe that it’s often likened to breaking bones, hence the nickname “breakbone fever.”

• • Nausea and vomiting: Dengue fever can cause nausea and vomiting, which can further contribute to dehydration and discomfort.

• • Skin rash: A red, itchy rash can appear on the skin during the later stages of Dengue fever.

• • Mild bleeding (e.g., nose or gums): In some cases, Dengue fever can cause mild bleeding from the nose, gums, or other areas.

Protecting Yourself from Dengue:

There’s no vaccine for Dengue fever, so prevention is key. Here’s what you can do:

• • Fight the Bite: Apply insect repellent containing DEET (diethyltoluamide) regularly, especially during peak mosquito hours (dawn and dusk). DEET is a proven effective ingredient against mosquitoes, but be sure to choose a repellent with a concentration suitable for your needs and follow the instructions on the label carefully. Consider using repellents with lower DEET concentrations for children.

• • Cover Up: Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants when outdoors, especially in the evenings. This creates a physical barrier between you and mosquitoes, reducing the risk of getting bitten.

• • Eliminate Breeding Grounds: Empty any containers that hold stagnant water around your home, where mosquitoes breed. This includes things like old tires, flower pots, and clogged gutters. By eliminating these breeding grounds, you can significantly reduce the mosquito population around your home.

• • Seek Medical Attention: If you experience Dengue-like symptoms, consult a doctor immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications. Dengue fever can sometimes progress to a more severe form, so seeking medical attention promptly is crucial.

Don’t Forget the Flu:

While flu season typically peaks in winter months, outbreaks can occur year-round. With Dubai’s air-conditioned environments and frequent travel connections, the flu virus can spread easily.

Flu Symptoms:

• • Fever or chills: A fever is a common sign of the flu, often accompanied by chills or sweats.

• • Cough: A cough, often dry and hacking, is another hallmark symptom of the flu.

• • Sore throat: A sore throat can be scratchy, painful, and make swallowing uncomfortable.

• • Runny or stuffy nose: A runny or stuffy nose can contribute to congestion and difficulty breathing.

• • Muscle or body aches: The flu can cause muscle aches and body aches throughout your body, making you feel generally achy and uncomfortable.

• • Headache: A headache is another common symptom of the flu, often concentrated in the forehead area.

• • Fatigue (tiredness): The flu can leave you feeling extremely tired and fatigued, making it difficult to concentrate or carry out your daily activities.

Staying Flu-Free:

• • Get Vaccinated: The annual flu vaccine is the best way to protect yourself from the most common flu strains. Getting vaccinated is especially important for those at high risk of complications from the flu, such as young children, pregnant women, older adults, and people with chronic health conditions.

• • Practice Good Hygiene: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Frequent handwashing is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of germs, including the flu virus.

• • Avoid Close Contact: If you’re feeling unwell, stay home to avoid spreading the virus to others. This includes avoiding work, school, social gatherings, and public transportation. Let others know you’re not feeling well and postpone any non-essential activities.

• • Boost Your Immunity: Eat a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to provide your body with the nutrients it needs to fight off infection. Getting enough sleep and managing stress levels can also help boost your immune system.

Remember: By taking precautions against Dengue fever and the flu, you can stay cool, healthy, and enjoy the summer months in Dubai.

Additional Tips:

• • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Dehydration can worsen symptoms of both Dengue fever and the flu. Aim to drink water regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty.

• • Limit strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day. The intense heat and humidity in Dubai can put a strain on your body. Avoid strenuous exercise or outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day, typically between noon and 4 pm.

• • Pay attention to weather advisories and heat alerts. The National Center of Meteorology (NCM) issues weather advisories and heat alerts throughout the year. Be aware of these alerts and take precautions when extreme heat conditions are expected.

If you suspect Dengue fever or the flu and want to get tested or require a doctor on call, we’re here to help! Contact our service and we’ll provide you with premium home healthcare options. Our network of qualified doctors and nurses can be dispatched to your home to perform tests, provide diagnoses, and administer treatment plans. We offer a variety of services to ensure your comfort and well-being, including:

• • Fast and reliable appointment scheduling

• • Highly qualified and experienced doctors and nurses

• • Advanced diagnostic testing equipment

• • Effective treatment plans tailored to your individual needs

• • Medication delivery directly to your doorstep (if prescribed)

• • Multilingual support staff

Don’t wait until you’re feeling your worst to seek medical attention. By taking a proactive approach to your health and utilizing our convenient home healthcare services, you can ensure a speedy recovery and get back to enjoying the summer in Dubai.

For more information you can also read a joint publication of the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Special Programme for Research and Training in Tropical Diseases (TDR)