SAY NO TO EID GATHERINGS, DOCS URGE

dubai — With public health policies laid out and UAE residents reminded to avoid social gatherings this Eid Al Adha, doctors have explained why it is important to heed the government’s advice and practise all safety recommendations.

The UAE has seen a sharp drop in Covid-19 cases from a peak of about 900 a day in May. Recently, new recoveries have been outnumbering new cases in the country. And on Saturday, it reported no Covid-19 deaths in 24 hours for the third time this month.

All these positive indicators highlight how the UAE is getting closer to flattening the curve. The government’s mass testing drive and proactive approach have been key, but residents’ commitment to following safety policies also contributed significantly, health experts said.

At a recent briefing, Dr Omar Al Hammadi, the official spokesperson for the UAE Government, explained that “social and physical distancing gives more time for scientists and experts to find solutions and reduce the burden on the health sector”.

Dr Fawad Qasim, general practitioner at Right Health, in Sonapur, Muhaisnah, added that by staying away from gatherings, everyone can help prevent a ‘second wave’ of infections.

“Though the cases have fallen, gatherings this Eid may lead to possible infections which can add to the burden on healthcare setups,” Dr Qasim told Khaleej

Times.

For those who would be meeting immediate family members, traditional hugs must be avoided. Wearing masks at all times and keeping hands sanitised are also key.

Last May, there was a family gathering that resulted in 30 people being infected with Covid-19. Two families reportedly hosted a get-together and failed to follow social distancing rules. Dr Rasha Alani, family medicine specialist, at Medcare Medical Centre, Al Khawaneej, said social distancing has been found to be the “most effective measure” to protect public health amid the pandemic.

Dr Fatemah Aghanasiri, general practitioner at Aster Clinic, Arabian Ranches, added that people have to remember that the virus can be spread when people talk, laugh, sneeze or cough. “It is a very contagious virus that is mostly spread by respiratory droplets. People can get infected through their nose, mouth or eyes.”

She added that several Covid19-positive patients are asymptomatic, so a person can be carrier without even realising it.