With the return of students all over the UAE from summer break, a large number are falling sick, suffering from headaches and upset stomachs, say school principals and doctors.
The beginning of the school year on August 26, after two months off, has shown a dramatic increase in these complaints, and experts say that they are related to the transition from the lazy days of summer to the structured life of school.
Dr. Mirrah Agha Kandil, GEMS Education’s Group Senior Doctor reported that school clinics have seen a rise in stomach aches and headaches.
Well, she said, “Probably has something to do with the students trying to adapt from the lax schedules of the summer into early mornings and also from all the new places they visited.
Strict health policies in schools
All the schools in the UAE are making it extremely difficult with these health regulations in order to keep a clean environment. The ‘stay home if unwell’ policy is in full effect, with medical teams reminding parents to keep children at home if they exhibit symptoms of illness. “We advise both students and staff to be symptom-free for at least 24 hours without the use of medication before returning to school,” said Kandil.
Schools have also taken precautions to stop the spread of diseases with infection control, nurses that are trained for that, isolation rooms, and very stringent cleaning procedures. With flu season also rapidly approaching, schools are taking every precautionary measure they can think of to promote healthy habits, get everyone immunized, and hold awareness sessions.
Common illnesses and adjustment challenges
All the principals in the indian curriculum schools have noticed that the break in routine, combined with the different weather and atmospheres of summer travel, plays a significant role in the health problems the students are experiencing.
Rashmi Nandkeolyar, Principal and Director of DPS Dubai, stated that some students are falling ill with minor aliments like stomach aches and headaches and sports injuries, but says the school is keeping a close eye on the health of the students.
Doctors emphasize proactive health measures
Doctors are also reporting more cases of respiratory infections, gastrointestinal problems, and allergies among children with the start of the new school year. Dr. Hanan Elmorshedi, a Specialist Pediatrician at Burjeel Day Surgery Center in Al Dhafra, highlighted the importance of establishing stable routines to help children adapt.
“Prioritizing sufficient sleep, a balanced diet, and regular physical activity can significantly support children’s health during this transition,” she said. Dr. Elmorshedi also recommended that parents be aware of the stress or anxiety signs in their children and provide a relaxed and caring home.
Healthy eating habits are essential
Medical doctors and health care providers are advising parents to at least give homecooked meals that are made from scratch to avoid stomach and digestive problems.
Dr. Mohammed Asif, Specialist Pediatrician at Zulekha Hospital Sharjah, stresses the importance of maintaining good hygiene practices such as washing hands often to avoid illness. He also advised against giving children outside foods, which can increase the risk of health problems.
