Coronavirus and Children in Dubai: Expert Guide from Pediatrician Dr. Medhat Abu-Shaaban

Are you concerned about protecting your children from coronavirus? Do you have questions about COVID-19 symptoms in children and how to keep your family safe? At myPediaClinic in Dubai Healthcare City, we have been supporting families throughout the UAE during the pandemic with evidence-based guidance and care.

Dr. Medhat Abu-Shaaban, our award-winning pediatrician in Dubai and Medical Director of myPediaClinic, shares his expertise on coronavirus preparedness and response strategies for children and families. This comprehensive guide covers everything parents in Dubai need to know about COVID-19 and children, from symptom recognition to prevention and when to seek medical care.

Understanding Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Having accurate information about the coronavirus helps parents make informed decisions about protecting their families.

What Is COVID-19?

COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Key facts include:

• Respiratory illness: Primarily affects the respiratory system
• Highly contagious: Spreads easily from person to person
• Variable severity: Ranges from mild to severe illness
• Incubation period: Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure
• Asymptomatic spread: Some people spread the virus without symptoms

How COVID-19 Spreads

Understanding transmission helps with prevention:

• Respiratory droplets: When infected people cough or sneeze
• Close contact: Being near an infected person
• Aerosols: Tiny particles that can linger in the air
• Contaminated surfaces: Touching surfaces with virus then touching face
• Prolonged contact: Risk increases with longer exposure
• Indoor settings: Higher risk than outdoor environments

Symptoms of COVID-19

Symptoms range from mild to severe and include:

• Fever: Elevated temperature
• Dry cough: Persistent coughing
• Shortness of breath: Difficulty breathing
• Fatigue: Extreme tiredness
• Body aches: Muscle pain
• Loss of taste or smell: Common symptom
• Sore throat: Throat discomfort
• Headache: Head pain
• Congestion: Nasal stuffiness
• Gastrointestinal symptoms: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea

COVID-19 in Children

Children can get COVID-19, though they often experience it differently than adults.

Common Symptoms in Children

Children with COVID-19 typically experience:

• Fever: Often the first symptom
• Cold and flu-like symptoms: Similar to other respiratory infections
• Cough: May be dry or productive
• Reduced appetite: Not wanting to eat
• Fatigue: Tiredness and low energy
• Runny nose: Nasal discharge
• Sore throat: Throat discomfort
• Headache: In older children
• Gastrointestinal symptoms: More common in children than adults

How Children Differ from Adults

Key differences in how COVID-19 affects children:

• Often milder: Most children have mild or asymptomatic cases
• Can still spread: Children can transmit virus to others
• May look like other illnesses: Symptoms resemble common cold or flu
• Less severe outcomes: Hospitalization and serious illness less common
• Some at higher risk: Children with underlying conditions
• MIS-C: Rare inflammatory syndrome can occur

When to Be Concerned

Seek immediate medical attention if your child has:

• Difficulty breathing: Labored breathing or shortness of breath
• Persistent chest pain: Ongoing chest discomfort
• Confusion: New confusion or inability to wake
• Blue lips or face: Signs of oxygen problems
• Severe abdominal pain: Especially with fever
• High persistent fever: Not responding to treatment
• Rash with fever: May indicate MIS-C
• Severe dehydration: Unable to keep fluids down

Preventing COVID-19 in Children

Prevention remains the best strategy for protecting children from coronavirus.

Hand Hygiene

Proper hand washing is essential:

• Frequent washing: Regular hand washing throughout the day
• Proper technique: Soap and water for at least 20 seconds
• Key times: Before eating, after bathroom, after coughing/sneezing
• Hand sanitizer: When soap unavailable, use 60%+ alcohol-based sanitizer
• Teaching children: Make it fun and consistent
• Model behavior: Children learn from watching adults

Respiratory Etiquette

Teach children to:

• Cover coughs and sneezes: Use tissue or elbow
• Dispose of tissues: Properly throw away used tissues
• Wash hands after: Clean hands after coughing or sneezing
• Avoid touching face: Reduce touching eyes, nose, mouth

Physical Distancing

When appropriate:

• Maintain distance: Keep space from those outside household
• Avoid crowded places: When possible
• Outdoor over indoor: Prefer outdoor activities
• Limit gatherings: Follow local guidelines

Mask Usage

Follow current guidelines on masks:

• Age appropriate: Not recommended for very young children
• Proper fit: Covering nose and mouth
• Clean masks: Regular washing of cloth masks
• School requirements: Follow school policies
• Exceptions: Children with certain conditions may be exempt

Stay Home When Sick

An essential prevention measure:

• Keep sick children home: From school and activities
• Isolation: Follow guidelines if COVID-positive
• Contact school: Report illness as required
• Return to school: When well and meeting criteria

Vaccination for Children

COVID-19 vaccines have been developed and approved for children.

Vaccine Availability

• Age groups: Vaccines approved for various age groups
• Dubai availability: Vaccines available through healthcare providers
• Dosing: Age-appropriate doses
• Schedule: Follow recommended timing between doses

Benefits of Vaccination

• Protection from severe illness: Reduces risk of serious COVID-19
• Reduces transmission: Helps protect others
• School attendance: Less disruption from illness
• Community protection: Contributes to overall safety
• Normal activities: Safer return to regular life

Vaccine Safety

• Thoroughly tested: Clinical trials in children
• Monitored: Ongoing safety surveillance
• Common side effects: Mild, temporary reactions
• Rare serious effects: Uncommon, benefits outweigh risks
• Consult your pediatrician: For personalized advice

When to Seek Medical Care

Knowing when to contact your pediatrician versus going to a hospital is important during the pandemic.

Contact Your Pediatrician First

Dr. Medhat Abu-Shaaban advises contacting your pediatrician first rather than going directly to hospitals when:

• Fever develops: Even if you suspect COVID-19
• Mild symptoms: Cough, runny nose, fatigue
• Testing needed: To arrange appropriate testing
• Questions about care: Guidance on home management
• Monitoring needs: Checking on progress

Why Pediatrician First?

• Proper evaluation: Clinics can provide appropriate assessment
• Reduced hospital exposure: Less risk of catching or spreading illness
• Appropriate care: Most cases do not need hospital
• Resource allocation: Hospitals for those who truly need them
• Continuity of care: Your pediatrician knows your child

When to Go to Hospital

Seek emergency care immediately for:

• Severe difficulty breathing
• Blue lips or face
• Unable to wake or stay awake
• Severe chest pain
• Signs of dehydration with inability to drink
• Seizures
• Any life-threatening symptoms

Caring for a Child with COVID-19 at Home

Most children with COVID-19 can recover safely at home with proper care.

General Care

• Rest: Allow plenty of rest and sleep
• Hydration: Encourage fluid intake
• Fever management: Use appropriate fever reducers
• Nutrition: Offer easy-to-eat foods
• Monitor symptoms: Watch for worsening
• Comfort: Provide comfort and reassurance

Isolation at Home

• Separate room: If possible, keep sick child in own room
• Separate bathroom: If possible, dedicate bathroom
• Limit contact: One caregiver if possible
• Masks: When in shared spaces
• Hand hygiene: Frequent hand washing
• Clean surfaces: Regular disinfection

Duration of Isolation

Follow current guidelines on:

• How long to isolate
• When to end isolation
• Return to school criteria
• Testing requirements if any

Talking to Children About COVID-19

Communication with children about the pandemic is important for their emotional wellbeing.

Preparation

• Inform yourself first: Have accurate, current information
• Choose the right time: When child is calm and receptive
• Age-appropriate: Tailor explanation to their level
• Calm demeanor: Your anxiety affects children

Key Messages

• Simple explanations: What COVID-19 is
• How to stay safe: Hand washing, distancing
• Reassurance: Adults are working to keep them safe
• Answer questions: Honestly and simply
• Control: Focus on what they can do

Emotional Support

• Acknowledge feelings: It is okay to feel worried or sad
• Listen: Let them express concerns
• Maintain routines: Structure provides security
• Limit media: Reduce exposure to scary news
• Stay connected: Even if physically distant from others
• Model coping: Show healthy ways to manage stress

Managing Pandemic Life

The pandemic has affected all aspects of family life. Here are strategies for managing ongoing challenges.

School and Learning

• Support remote learning: Create conducive environment
• Stay connected: With teachers and school
• Address learning gaps: Seek help if needed
• Balance screens: Manage screen time
• Social connections: Safe ways to connect with peers

Physical Activity

• Daily movement: Make time for physical activity
• Outdoor time: Safer than indoor gatherings
• Indoor options: Exercise videos, active games
• Family activities: Move together

Mental Health

• Watch for changes: Mood, behavior, sleep
• Maintain connections: Social support is important
• Seek help: If concerns arise
• Self-care for parents: Your wellbeing matters too

Understanding Long COVID in Children

Some children experience prolonged symptoms after COVID-19 infection, known as Long COVID or post-COVID conditions.

What Is Long COVID?

• Persistent symptoms: Symptoms lasting weeks or months after initial infection
• Can occur: Even after mild initial illness
• Less common in children: But can happen
• Varied presentation: Different symptoms in different children

Symptoms of Long COVID in Children

• Fatigue: Persistent tiredness not relieved by rest
• Difficulty concentrating: Sometimes called “brain fog”
• Headaches: Ongoing or recurring head pain
• Sleep problems: Difficulty sleeping or excessive sleepiness
• Shortness of breath: With or without exertion
• Muscle or joint pain: Persistent aches
• Mood changes: Anxiety, depression, irritability
• Exercise intolerance: Difficulty with previously tolerated activity

Managing Long COVID

• Medical evaluation: Comprehensive assessment to rule out other causes
• Gradual return to activity: Slow, paced increase in activities
• Rest: Allow adequate rest and recovery
• School accommodations: If needed for cognitive symptoms
• Mental health support: For emotional symptoms
• Regular monitoring: Track symptoms and progress

MIS-C: What Parents Need to Know

Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C) is a rare but serious condition associated with COVID-19.

What Is MIS-C?

• Inflammatory condition: Body’s severe inflammatory response
• Occurs weeks after: Usually 2-6 weeks after COVID-19 infection
• May follow mild or asymptomatic: COVID-19 cases
• Rare: Affects a small number of children
• Treatable: Most children recover with proper care

Signs of MIS-C

Seek immediate medical attention if your child has:

• Prolonged fever: Fever lasting several days
• Abdominal pain: Stomach pain, often severe
• Vomiting or diarrhea: Gastrointestinal symptoms
• Rash: Especially with fever
• Red eyes: Bloodshot eyes
• Swollen hands or feet: Puffy extremities
• Red, cracked lips: Or red tongue
• Extreme fatigue: Unusual tiredness
• Dizziness or lightheadedness: Signs of low blood pressure

Treatment for MIS-C

• Hospital care: Usually requires hospitalization
• Anti-inflammatory treatment: Medications to reduce inflammation
• Supportive care: Treatment of specific symptoms
• Heart monitoring: Cardiac involvement is common
• Good outcomes: Most children recover fully with treatment

Supporting Your Child’s Immune System

While no strategy guarantees prevention of illness, supporting overall health helps children fight infections.

Healthy Lifestyle Factors

• Adequate sleep: Age-appropriate amount of quality sleep
• Balanced nutrition: Variety of fruits, vegetables, proteins, whole grains
• Physical activity: Regular exercise appropriate for age
• Hydration: Adequate fluid intake
• Stress management: Managing anxiety and stress
• Fresh air: Outdoor time when possible

Key Nutrients for Immune Health

• Vitamin C: Found in citrus fruits, berries, peppers
• Vitamin D: From sunlight and fortified foods
• Zinc: In meat, legumes, seeds, nuts
• Protein: Essential for immune function
• Probiotics: Support gut health and immunity

What Does Not Help

• Unproven supplements: No evidence they prevent COVID-19
• Excessive vitamin doses: Can be harmful
• Alternative remedies: Not substitutes for proven prevention
• Only vaccination and prevention: Proven to reduce COVID-19 risk

Staying Current with Information

COVID-19 guidance continues to evolve as we learn more about the virus and develop new tools.

Reliable Information Sources

• Your pediatrician: myPediaClinic for personalized guidance
• Dubai Health Authority: Local public health guidance
• UAE Ministry of Health: National recommendations
• World Health Organization: Global guidance
• Centers for Disease Control: Evidence-based recommendations

Beware of Misinformation

• Social media: Not always accurate
• Unverified sources: May spread false information
• When uncertain: Ask your pediatrician
• Check sources: Verify information before acting on it

Frequently Asked Questions About COVID-19 and Children

How do I know if my child has COVID-19 or a regular cold?

COVID-19 symptoms can look very similar to the common cold or flu in children, making it difficult to tell them apart without testing. Common symptoms like fever, cough, runny nose, and fatigue occur with both COVID-19 and other respiratory infections. If you are concerned about COVID-19, contact myPediaClinic to discuss testing. Dr. Medhat Abu-Shaaban can help you determine the appropriate next steps based on your child’s symptoms and exposure history.

Should my child get the COVID-19 vaccine?

COVID-19 vaccines are available and recommended for children in eligible age groups. Vaccination helps protect your child from serious illness and reduces transmission in the community. Like all vaccines, COVID-19 vaccines have been tested for safety and effectiveness in children. If you have questions or concerns about vaccinating your child, schedule a consultation with Dr. Medhat Abu-Shaaban at myPediaClinic in Dubai to discuss your child’s specific situation and get personalized guidance.

When can my child return to school after having COVID-19?

Return-to-school guidelines may change based on current public health recommendations. Generally, children should be fever-free without fever-reducing medication, have improving symptoms, and meet any isolation duration requirements. Contact myPediaClinic for current guidance and clearance before your child returns to school. We can provide documentation if needed by your child’s school.

My child was exposed to someone with COVID-19. What should I do?

If your child has been exposed to someone with COVID-19, contact myPediaClinic for guidance based on current protocols. Depending on vaccination status and other factors, recommendations may include monitoring for symptoms, testing, or quarantine. Dr. Medhat Abu-Shaaban can advise on the appropriate steps for your specific situation and help arrange testing if needed.

How can I help my child cope with pandemic-related anxiety?

Children may experience anxiety about the pandemic, which is normal. Help by maintaining routines, providing honest age-appropriate information, limiting media exposure, acknowledging their feelings, and modeling calm coping. Keep connections with family and friends through safe means. If your child shows significant anxiety, sleep problems, or behavioral changes, consult with myPediaClinic for guidance. We can help determine if additional support is needed.

Can my child get COVID-19 more than once?

Yes, reinfection with COVID-19 is possible, especially as new variants emerge. Previous infection provides some immunity but does not guarantee protection against future infection. Vaccination is recommended even for children who have had COVID-19, as it provides additional protection. Continue following prevention measures regardless of previous infection. If your child develops symptoms again after recovering from COVID-19, contact myPediaClinic in Dubai for evaluation.

Should I keep my child home from school if there is a COVID-19 case in their class?

Follow current guidelines from Dubai Health Authority and your child’s school regarding exposure protocols. Requirements may vary based on vaccination status, symptoms, and current public health recommendations. Contact myPediaClinic if you are unsure what to do or if your child develops symptoms. We can provide guidance based on current protocols and your child’s specific situation.

Is it safe for my child to participate in sports and activities during the pandemic?

Many sports and activities can be done safely with appropriate precautions. Outdoor activities are generally safer than indoor ones. Follow guidelines from sports organizations and local health authorities. Ensure good hygiene practices, stay home when sick, and follow any testing or vaccination requirements. Dr. Medhat Abu-Shaaban at myPediaClinic can provide guidance on safe participation based on your child’s health status and current recommendations.

What should I do if my child is anxious about getting vaccinated?

Vaccine anxiety is common in children. Prepare them by explaining what to expect in simple, honest terms. Use age-appropriate language and avoid scary descriptions. Stay calm yourself, as children pick up on parental anxiety. Bring comfort items. Use distraction techniques during the vaccination. Praise their bravery afterward. If anxiety is severe, contact myPediaClinic in Dubai to discuss strategies or schedule a pre-vaccination visit to address concerns.

How long should I monitor my child for MIS-C after COVID-19?

MIS-C typically occurs two to six weeks after COVID-19 infection. Monitor your child for signs of MIS-C during this period, including prolonged fever, abdominal pain, vomiting, rash, red eyes, or extreme fatigue. MIS-C is rare, so most children will not develop it. However, knowing the signs allows for prompt treatment if it does occur. Contact myPediaClinic immediately or seek emergency care if you notice symptoms of MIS-C.

Can COVID-19 affect my child’s heart?

COVID-19 can affect the heart in some children, particularly those who develop MIS-C. Symptoms of heart involvement may include chest pain, shortness of breath, racing heart, or fatigue. Most children recover fully with appropriate treatment. If your child has had COVID-19 and experiences cardiac symptoms or unusual fatigue especially with exercise, contact myPediaClinic for evaluation. Children with known heart conditions should discuss COVID-19 precautions with their pediatric cardiologist.

What precautions should high-risk children take?

Children with underlying conditions such as chronic lung disease, heart conditions, weakened immune systems, obesity, or diabetes may be at higher risk for severe COVID-19. These children should follow prevention measures carefully, stay up to date with vaccinations, and consult their pediatrician about additional precautions. At myPediaClinic in Dubai, Dr. Medhat Abu-Shaaban can provide personalized guidance for high-risk children based on their specific conditions.

My child had a mild case of COVID-19. Should I still be concerned?

Most children with mild COVID-19 recover fully without complications. However, monitor for any lingering symptoms that could indicate Long COVID, and watch for signs of MIS-C in the weeks following infection. Ensure your child returns to normal activities gradually. If you notice persistent symptoms such as fatigue, difficulty concentrating, or shortness of breath, contact myPediaClinic for evaluation. Follow up with your pediatrician if you have any concerns about your child’s recovery.

How can I protect my infant who is too young for vaccination?

Protect infants by ensuring that everyone around them is vaccinated and up to date with boosters. Practice good hand hygiene, especially before handling the baby. Limit exposure to people outside your household when possible. Ask visitors to wash hands and avoid visiting if sick. Keep infant away from crowded places. Breastfeeding may provide some protective antibodies. Contact myPediaClinic if your infant develops any concerning symptoms.

Pediatric COVID-19 Care at myPediaClinic

At myPediaClinic in Dubai Healthcare City, Dr. Medhat Abu-Shaaban and our team provide comprehensive care for children during the pandemic. We offer both in-person and telehealth consultations to meet your family’s needs safely.

Our services include:

• COVID-19 evaluation and testing guidance
• Telehealth consultations for illness assessment
• In-person care when needed
• Vaccination counseling
• Management of COVID-19 symptoms
• Return-to-school clearance
• Ongoing well-child care
• Mental health support referrals
• Family education and guidance

Contact myPediaClinic:

• Location: Dubai Healthcare City, Dubai, UAE
• Book online: Schedule an Appointment
• Phone: +971-4-430-5926

Keep your family safe, healthy, and informed during these challenging times. Contact the Best Pediatric Clinic in Dubai Healthcare City for expert guidance on COVID-19 and children.