Dubai is witnessing a significant surge in influenza cases, particularly among school-going children and individuals returning from travel abroad. Healthcare professionals across the city are raising concerns as the virus presents with more aggressive symptoms this season, and its rapid transmission—especially within families—is straining both clinics and households.

Influenza on the Rise: A Perfect Storm of Factors

The seasonal flu, typically expected in cooler months, has made a stronger-than-usual comeback in Dubai. Doctors attribute this spike to a mix of international travel, school reopenings, and changes in weather conditions. The result is an uptick in severe flu-like illnesses that are no longer mild or self-limiting for many patients. Children, in particular, are among the most affected. Paediatric clinics have seen a dramatic increase in the number of visits over the past few weeks. Many young patients present with high fever, body aches, coughing, sore throat, chills, fatigue, and nasal congestion. In some instances, children are also experiencing gastrointestinal symptoms like vomiting and diarrhoea, along with dehydration and irritability.

Returning Travellers Fuel the Flu Spread

One of the key contributors to the rise in cases is the return of residents from international holidays. Travellers often bring back new viral strains, including more potent flu subtypes not previously circulating in the local community. Upon their return, interaction with family members, co-workers, and classmates accelerates the virus’s transmission. Doctors also note that family clusters of flu infections are becoming increasingly common. A child picks up the virus at school or during a holiday trip and unknowingly infects parents, grandparents, and siblings at home. This intra-household spread is making it harder to contain the flu once it enters a residence.

Changing Weather and Immunity Levels Contribute

Another factor driving the spike is the seasonal drop in temperatures. Although Dubai does not face extremely cold winters, the shift to indoor environments during the cooler season reduces ventilation and promotes virus survival. In addition, doctors believe lowered immunity levels among children who haven't been exposed to recent flu strains may be making the illness hit harder than before.

Warning Signs and When to Seek Help

Healthcare professionals emphasize that early recognition and treatment of influenza are crucial—especially in children. Warning signs that should not be ignored include a persistent high fever (above 39°C), shortness of breath, chest pain, extreme fatigue, dehydration, or drowsiness. If these symptoms are present, patients should seek medical attention immediately. Once diagnosed—typically through a nasal swab—doctors often recommend antiviral medications such as oseltamivir, which can significantly reduce the duration and severity of the illness if administered within the first 48 hours of symptom onset.

Flu Prevention: Vaccination and Hygiene Still the Best Defense

Despite the alarming rise in cases, doctors say that the best defence against influenza remains prevention. The annual flu vaccine is widely available at clinics and pharmacies in Dubai and is especially recommended for high-risk groups, including children, senior citizens, and those with pre-existing medical conditions. Alongside vaccination, maintaining good hygiene is essential. Regular handwashing with soap, using tissues or elbows while sneezing or coughing, avoiding touching the face, and keeping a safe distance from people showing flu-like symptoms can all significantly reduce transmission.

Parents are advised not to send children back to school until they have been symptom-free for at least 24 hours without the aid of medication. Schools are also being urged to enforce strict health protocols to prevent classroom outbreaks.

Doctors Appeal for Community Vigilance

Dubai’s healthcare community is calling for increased awareness and cooperation from families, schools, and employers. Keeping sick children at home, encouraging proper rest, staying hydrated, and seeking timely care can prevent complications and reduce the flu’s spread across the emirate. Clinics are also stepping up their efforts to handle the influx, ensuring quick access to flu tests, vaccinations, and medical consultations. Health authorities may soon launch awareness campaigns to educate residents on how to differentiate between common colds, the flu, and COVID-19, all of which share overlapping symptoms.

As Dubai contends with a strong wave of influenza infections, medical professionals urge residents to act responsibly and take preventive steps seriously. The current situation serves as a reminder that seasonal viruses can quickly escalate into public health challenges if not managed proactively. Vaccination, early diagnosis, and proper isolation remain the pillars of flu control. With collective community effort, the city can curb this outbreak and safeguard the health of vulnerable populations.