9-year-old dies of viral infection

Schools issue health advisory to parents asking them to keep sick children at home

Schools issue health advisory urging parents to keep children home when they are unwell |

Aschool in Dubai has asked parents not to send their children to school if they are sick, following the death of a nine-year old student.

Ameena Sharaf, a grade 4 student of Our Own Indian High School, died on October 29 while undergoing treatment for fever, fatigue and nausea at the Al Jalila Children’s Hospital (AJCH) starting October 24.

GEMS Education issued a circular to parents, advising them not to take their children’s illness lightly. A spokesperson from the group told Gulf News: “We have issued a health advisory and advised parents not to send their children to the school if they are sick. We recommend them to consult doctors and to take all necessary precautions. The wellness of our students is of paramount importance to us.”

‘Child’s death a rare case’

AJCH issued a statement offering their condolences on the sad demise of their patient. It said: “Ameena initially showed symptoms of typical flu with fever, but later on was referred to Al Jalila Children’s on October 24 as a case of severe heart failure that might have been caused by a virus. We consider this a rare and unique case due to an abnormal response of the child’s immune system, that eventually caused her heart to become very weak and led to her very sad demise.

“Our sincere, wholehearted condolences go out to her family as we share their immense pain and loss. We advise all parents to keep their children at home if they develop any fever, and subsequently consult with a paediatrician if the fever persists for more than 48 hours.”

Ameena is survived by three other siblings.

Meanwhile, parents of students studying in other schools also said they received circulars asking them to be vigilant, discouraging them on sending their children to school if they are sick, to stop the spread of any contagion.

GEMS education expressed deep regret at Ameena’s death. A statement by the GEMS spokesperson read: “We are saddened by the passing away of Miss Ameena Anoum Sharaf, a Grade 4 B student at Gems Our Own Indian School Dubai. Ameena passed away after an acute illness. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and loved ones in this unfortunate time.

“Our counsellors are in touch with Ameena’s classmates and we will extend all support to them. Ameena was an extremely bright, talented and cheerful student, loved by her friends and teachers.”