Back-to-school illnesses: How UAE parents can keep common infections at bay

Dubai's schools returning can bring more than new uniforms and school bags, as common illnesses often accompany the first weeks of academic year. Health experts explain that children's increased contact in shared environments after the summer break creates more opportunities for infections to spread.

While most illnesses are minor, parents should know when to seek medical advice. Dr. Nitesh Sadhwani, a specialist paediatrician at Aster Clinic, says that colds, sore throats, coughs, viral fevers, and stomach infections are the most common illnesses seen in children during the back-to-school period. Encouraging regular handwashing, covering coughs and sneezes, avoiding shared items, maintaining good ventilation, and keeping sick children at home can reduce transmission.

Dr. Ensiyeh Rahimi, an infectious diseases specialist at Laser Medical Centre, warns that parents may notice a broad range of contagious illnesses after children return to school. Symptoms that may require medical attention include persistent or high fever, worsening symptoms, dehydration, unusual rashes, or marked lethargy. In cases of difficulty breathing, bluish lips, seizures, confusion, or trouble waking up, urgent medical attention is required.

Paediatricians advise focusing on basic healthy living habits rather than relying on single foods or supplements to boost immunity. A balanced diet with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, protein, and healthy fats, along with adequate sleep, regular physical activity, and good hydration, supports children's immune system. Children's exposure to germs is inevitable, but establishing healthy routines helps their bodies develop natural defenses.