WITH students returning to schools in Oman for the fall semester, the start of the academic year coincides with the onset of flu season, creating a pressing health challenge.
The large gatherings in schools and educational facilities increase the risk of spreading respiratory viruses, particularly influenza, necessitating proactive steps to safeguard students and the broader community.
Health experts note that flu season typically begins in late September and extends into early spring. The close contact among students during school hours, on buses, and during extracurricular activities creates an environment conducive to the spread of infectious diseases.
Dr Abdullah al Hadrami, a respiratory disease specialist, highlights the transmissibility of seasonal flu, which spreads through airborne particles and contact with contaminated surfaces.
"With the start of the school year, we often observe an uptick in flu cases among students, necessitating preventive actions to curb the virus’s spread within schools," he states.
The symptoms of the flu range from mild to severe, including fever, coughing, sore throat, headaches, and fatigue.
In severe cases, influenza can lead to complications such as pneumonia, particularly among younger children or those with pre-existing health conditions. The illness not only affects students' health but also their academic performance, as flu-related absences disrupt learning and place additional pressure on both students and educators to catch up on missed lessons.
Sheikha al Ghailani, a first-year teacher, notes, “Each year, we see a spike in flu-related absences at the beginning of the term. Students with the flu struggle to focus in class, and some are forced to stay home, disrupting their education. As educators, we stress the importance of hygiene and work closely with parents to maintain a healthy learning environment.”
In response, the Ministry of Health has launched initiatives aimed at raising awareness about flu prevention, collaborating with the Ministry of Education to inform students and families about hygiene practices and the importance of flu vaccination.
These vaccination campaigns are particularly targeted at high-risk groups, including students and children with chronic conditions, and are provided free of charge.
Schools support these efforts through workshops and educational programmes, ensuring that both students and staff are informed.
Families are encouraged to play an active role in flu prevention by ensuring their children practice good hygiene, eat balanced meals, and receive the flu vaccine.
Parents like Suad al Hashemi emphasise prevention at home, saying, “I teach my children to wash their hands frequently, especially after school, and ensure they receive the flu vaccine annually. Prevention starts at home, and working with schools and health officials is key to protecting our kids.”
Through concerted efforts from health authorities, educational institutions, and families, the spread of the flu can be minimised. Simple preventive measures, combined with timely vaccinations, will be essential in protecting students and the wider community during this flu season.
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