Flu cases in UAE down thanks to Covid safety measures

Flu cases in UAE down thanks to Covid safety measures

Aggressive precautionary measures to tame the unprecedented novel coronavirus disease (Covid-19) have lessened influenza and other respiratory diseases that usually report a surge around this time of the year, according to doctors in the UAE.

Though the nation is consistently reporting over 1,000 Covid-19 cases for more than eight weeks, the incidence of several common seasonal diseases is unusually low this year.

Doctors explain responses intended to fight the Covid-19 pandemic such as wearing a mask, adhering to social distancing norms, working and studying from home have had a significant impact on other common respiratory illnesses.

Dr Jimmy Joseph, Specialist Internal Medicine and Diabetologist at Aster Speciality Medical Centre at International City in Dubai, said, “Lockdown and physical distancing measures have helped reduce the incidence of flu, common cold, bronchitis and a host of viruses barring Covid-19. Social distancing, facial masks, hand washing and increased personal hygiene appear to have led to prevention of respiratory viral outbreak.”

“Besides, there has been an increased awareness among people about the influenza vaccine. There has also been a significant uptick in the number of individuals who have opted for the flu vaccine this year”, he