Traveling to Dubai in Winter? Here's How to Safeguard Against Cold and Flu

Published on: 03rd January 2024
Medically reviewed by: General Practitioner at First Response Healthcare

Dubai is famous for its iconic skyline and vibrant culture, and it attracts tourists from around the world, especially during the winter months when temperatures are milder. Although months during cool weather are a pleasant time to visit, it also brings the risk of cold and flu. To ensure an enjoyable trip, it is essential to be proactive in cold and flu prevention during your travel. This blog will shed light on some methods of cold and flu prevention, some winter health tips, cold flu treatment and will highlight Dubai healthcare services that you can avail if you are down with cold and flu.

What Is the Difference Between Cold & Flu?

Before discussing cold and flu prevention strategies and cold flu treatment, it is essential to understand the difference between cold and flu. Both are respiratory diseases caused by viruses, but they differ in severity and symptoms.

The common cold and flu usually presents with a runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, and mild fatigue. In contrast, flu is often more serious with symptoms such as high fever, body aches and fatigue. Prevention strategies apply to both, but additional precautions may be needed for the flu.

What To Do for Cold and Flu Prevention?

Here are some ways that can help you prevent cold and flu when you are traveling:

- Hand Hygiene: Good hand hygiene is crucial for cold and flu prevention. Dubai’s bustling environment means you’ll come in contact with many surfaces. Make sure to wash your hands regularly, especially before meals or after touching common surfaces. If soap and water aren’t available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.

- Vaccination: Before you leave for travel, remember to get a flu shot for the cold and flu prevention. Influenza viruses can be particularly potent, and vaccination greatly reduces the risk of infection. Consult your healthcare provider to ensure you receive the appropriate vaccine for the current cold and flu season.

- Boost Your Immunity: Strengthen your immune system with a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals. Include immune-boosting foods like citrus fruits, berries, garlic, and yogurt. Staying hydrated is also essential to support your immune system and prevent dehydration.

- Wear Weather-Appropriate Clothing: Dubai’s winter weather can be mild during the day but cooler in the evenings. Pack layers to adjust for temperature fluctuations. Dressing appropriately can help keep your immune system strong and prevent cold and flu.

What Are Some Winter Health Tips For Cold and Flu Prevention?

Additional Ways to Prevent Cold and Flu While Traveling

Stay Hydrated:
Even in warmer weather, dehydration can occur, especially with increased physical activity or time spent in air-conditioned spaces. Drink enough water throughout the day to support your immune system and counteract the effects of artificial cooling, helping to prevent cold and flu.

Balanced Nutrition:
Dubai’s diverse cuisine offers many healthy options. Explore local markets and restaurants to find nutrient-rich foods. Incorporate immune-boosting ingredients like ginger and turmeric into your meals. For emergencies, Dubai’s healthcare services are easily accessible.

Exercise Regularly:
Engage in Dubai’s outdoor activities to maintain an active lifestyle. From beach walks to desert safaris and water sports, regular exercise strengthens your immune system and improves your overall mood and health.

Get Enough Rest:
Traveling can be exhausting, so prioritize getting enough sleep. Rest is crucial for recovery and helps keep your immune system strong, reducing the chances of falling ill during your trip.

Which Dubai Healthcare Services Can You Avail When You’re Sick?

Dubai is home to a robust healthcare infrastructure with modern hospitals and clinics equipped with advanced technology. Along with Dubai healthcare services , there are several home healthcare providers that offer doctor on call services for tourists right in the hotel. Be familiar with nearby medical facilities or home healthcare organizations to ensure quick access in the event of an emergency. Make sure to get comprehensive travel medical insurance to cover any unexpected medical expenses for Dubai healthcare services. This not only gives you peace of mind, but also ensures that you can access high-quality healthcare services without facing financial hardship when you become ill. Emergency services in Dubai are very efficient and responsive. Memorize the emergency number (999) and find out the location of the hospital or clinic closest to you. Having emergency contacts available can speed up the process in case medical assistance is needed. Dubai has many pharmacies with a full range of medicines for Dubai healthcare services. Bring a basic travel medical kit with essentials like pain relievers, fever reducers, and cold medications. Pharmacists in Dubai have extensive knowledge and can provide you with advice on over-the-counter cold flu treatments, ensuring you are well prepared for minor health concerns during your stay.

What To Do If You Do Get A Cold Or Flu?

If you are struggling with the flu despite your best efforts for cold and flu prevention, it is essential to take immediate steps to control symptoms and prevent further complications by getting cold flu treatment. Follow these tips to get through the flu and ensure a faster recovery:

● Self-isolation:
As soon as flu symptoms such as high fever, body aches, and difficulty breathing appear, it is important to isolate to prevent the spread. Stay home, avoid close contact with others, and get some rest so your body can focus on fighting the infection.

● Stay hydrated:
Dehydration is a common phenomenon with the flu due to fever and increased respiratory activity. Make sure you stay hydrated.

● Over-the-counter medications:
Consider taking over-the-counter medications to control specific flu symptoms. Pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help reduce fever and body aches. Cough syrup or decongestants may relieve respiratory symptoms.

● Rest:
Adequate rest is essential in recovering from the flu. Your body needs time to heal, and stress can prolong the illness. Prioritize sleep and allow your immune system to work effectively to fight viruses.

● Seek medical attention if necessary:
If your symptoms persist or worsen, especially if you are in a high-risk group, seek medical attention promptly. Flu can cause complications such as pneumonia, and early intervention is essential. Dubai’s healthcare services are known for their efficiency and ability to provide the necessary care. Seek medical help without hesitation, and get cold flu treatment.

Doctor At Home In Dubai | First Response Healthcare

First Response Healthcare (FRH) is one of the best home healthcare companies in Dubai that provides a wide range of medical services in the comfort of your home. FRH is JCI accredited, and its services meet international quality standards. Through FRH’s doctor at home service, you can book an appointment for medical treatment or for cold and flu treatment at your hotel or home and a licensed, trained and experienced doctor will reach you within 30 minutes.

Our Dubai healthcare services team of doctors and nurses offer services that are patient-centric, professional and trustworthy. Our team of doctors can diagnose and treat a wide range of illnesses, right from cold and flu, fevers, migraines and allergic reactions to respiratory diseases, chronic diseases, digestive disorders and skin problems. Our service operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, including weekends and holidays.

To book an appointment with us, all you need to do is call 0505050387 or 800DIALDOC to receive medical treatment at your home or hotel in Dubai. You can also book an appointment online by visiting our website