AR
UR
UAE doctors have advised families in the country to be fully vaccinated, get booster doses and continue compliance with relevant precautionary measures during the holy month of Ramadan.
According to YouGov survey, a majority of individuals have resumed pre-pandemic Ramadan activities to celebrate the holy month. However, medics have reiterated the importance of acting responsibly during Ramadan festivities to enhance protection and safety of the community members amid the ongoing efforts to containing the impact of the pandemic.
Dr Rajesh Kumar Gupta, Internal Medicine Specialist at Sharjah's Burjeel Speciality Hospital, underlined the importance for community members to be responsible, particular when the pandemic may be nearing its end. People can get vaccinated against COVID-19 as well as take the booster doses to protect themselves and their family members.
Dr Gupta advised pregnant women, children, symptomatic persons, and those in the high-risk group to stay away from large gatherings as well as be extra cautious while attending social events.
"Ahead of the month of fasting, contact your doctor to know how to adjust your medications, especially diabetes medication,” Gupta asserted.
Healthcare professionals have also warned about an expected rise in COVID-19 cases due to large Iftar gatherings. In this regard, doctors urged people to celebrate the festive month with immediate family members, especially those who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19.
Dr Aws Al-Obaidy, General Practitioner, Health Hub Clinic - Discovery Gardens, called for maintaining general precautionary measures such as wearing masks, frequent hand washing and sanitizing should continue to be the first step to enhance prevention against the disease. These efforts will also help in facilitating better control in morbidity and mortality, the doctor added.
Meanwhile, the YouGov report suggested that when asked about residents' plan to celebrate Ramadan this year, almost half (47 percent) stated that they are more likely to meet their family and friends in-person during the holy month.
This development has come after two years of restrictions during the holy month in view of the COVID-19 pandemic in the country.
“Be aware of the vaccination status of those around you, especially those who are elderly and chronically ill," said Dr Mohammad Fawzi Katranji, Consultant Pulmonologist at Al Zahra Hospital Dubai.
He also advised residents to avoid unnecessary social gatherings in case of any symptoms. He also recommended outdoor gatherings for families, adding that the weather is still pleasant at night.
"It is advised that all public gatherings during Ramadan can be organized in open areas with social distancing precautions," Dr Amira Emad, General Practitioner at Prime Medical Center - Barsha Heights added.
General tips to stay safe during the holy month:
· Take both doses of COVID-19 vaccine as well as booster dose if required
· Be aware of the vaccination status of those around you
· Ensure adequate ventilation in areas where mask-wearing is not mandatory
· Practice safe and responsible behaviour while keeping public safety in mind
· Maintain safe distance of 2 meters or 6 feet from others
· Regularly wash hands for at least 20 seconds as well as sanitize them properly
· Wear masks and gloves in crowded areas. At the same time, wearing face masks in indoor spaces is recommended
· Avoid greeting people by hugging or shaking hands
· In case of COVID-19 infection, continue to self-isolate at home and avoid contact with others
· Continue to avoid touching face, especially eyes, mouth, and nose
· Worshippers must follow social distancing at mosques and prayer halls
· In mosques, worshippers can continue to follow pre-pandemic prayer procedures but ensure precautions.
SOURCE: Khaleej Times