UAE Doctors Integrate Vaccination and Eye Check in Back-to-School List
As the countdown to the new school year begins, parents are busy ticking off their back-to-school checklists, which include purchasing supplies and uniforms. In the midst of these preparations.
UAE Doctors Recommend Flu Vaccine and Eye Check-Ups
UAE doctors are urging parents to add two essential items to the list: ensuring their children receive the flu vaccine and scheduling comprehensive eye check-ups. These additional steps are aimed at ensuring students' health and readiness as they embark on a new academic year.
The Importance of Flu Vaccine
Dr. Viswasri Vijayaraj, a specialist in pediatrics at Aster Clinic-Al Khail, emphasized the significance of the flu vaccine. She explained that the flu vaccine is the most effective way to prevent flu and its potential complications, such as pneumonia. Given the ever-changing nature of flu viruses, yearly flu shots are crucial for maintaining adequate protection. Dr. Vijayaraj emphasized that all children aged six months and older should receive an annual flu shot to ensure protection throughout the flu season.
Preventing Common Illnesses
Dr. Pankaj Nandlal Tardeja from NMC Specialty Hospital in Al Ain highlighted the susceptibility of children to common cold and flu viruses in school environments due to close contact. He stressed the importance of proper hand-washing and respiratory hygiene practices to curb the spread of germs. Dr. Tardeja also emphasized the significance of up-to-date vaccinations in preventing serious illnesses and diseases among schoolchildren.
Holistic Health Practices
In addition to flu vaccinations, Dr. Tardeja recommended maintaining a balanced diet, ensuring adequate sleep, and staying hydrated, particularly in the UAE's warm climate. These practices contribute to overall well-being and better immunity, allowing students to thrive academically and physically.
Ensuring Healthy Vision
Dr. Julia Sempere Matarredona, a consultant ophthalmologist at Barraquer Eye Hospital Dubai, stressed the importance of annual eye check-ups for school-age children. She emphasized that even if children show no symptoms, regular eye examinations are crucial for identifying treatable conditions that can affect their learning and overall quality of life.
Visual Health Equals Academic Success
Dr. Matarredona likened annual eye check-ups to routine dental appointments, underlining the importance of maintaining good eye health as a foundation for academic success. Parents were advised to watch for signs of potential eye problems in their children, such as excessive blinking, difficulty reading, and vision disturbances. These proactive measures contribute to children's optimal vision and overall academic achievement.
