Oman joins Ramsar Convention panel

to prevent flu right in the beginning of September. An influenza vaccine gives up to 70 per cent cover against contracting any such virus, he said.

“Anti-viral vaccine is one of the most effective medical interventions for the prevention of vaccine-targeted diseases,” he said. According to Dr Basheer, one of the most important things one can do is to take rest if caught by the virus. “Taking a break from your work place and giving the body a chance to fight off the infection can help boost your immune system,” he said. “I would advise people who are ill to stay at home to prevent the spread of virus. Flu is highly contagious,” he warned.

He said that flu viruses spread mainly by droplets made when people with flu cough, sneeze or talk.

“Droplets of flu cough, sneeze or talk can land in the mouths or noses of others nearby. This can lead to spread of the virus,” he said. ABU DHABI: The Sultanate was nominated unopposed to the Permanent Committee for the Wetland Convention, known as Ramsar Convention, for the period from 2019 to 2021 as a representative of West and Central Asia.

The election came during the 13th session of Ramsar Convention, held in Abu Dhabi. Bhutan was approved as representative for South and Southeast Asia. Japan was elected as representative of East Asia. More than 1,000 expert and officials representing 158 Ramsar member countries took part at the session. The Sultanate joined the Wetland Convention after the Royal Decree No. 64/2012 regarding the wetlands of national importance namely Al Qurm Natural Park, located in the heart of Muscat.