Medics have warned of a potential rise in seasonal flu and respiratory illnesses as many citizens and residents return to the kingdom from holidays this weekend.
Health authorities are urging people to take preventive measures, including vaccination, to help curb a possible surge in cases.
“We may see an uptick in infections as travellers return next week,” said King Abdullah Medical City University Medical Centre senior paediatric consultant professor Dr Mohammed Elbeltagi.
“With most children returning to school, entire families could face increased exposure.”
Dr Mohammed Elbeltagi
He added that New Year’s gatherings could further contribute to the spread, stressing the importance of maintaining good hygiene and getting vaccinated, especially for high-risk groups such as children and older adults.
“Travellers returning from areas experiencing flu outbreaks should monitor their health, get tested if symptoms develop and wear masks while travelling or in crowded places to reduce the risk of transmission,” he added. “By taking these precautions, we can reduce the risk of flu outbreaks in Bahrain.”
He recommended frequent handwashing, keeping sick children at home, regularly disinfecting commonly touched surfaces such as doorknobs, tables and electronic devices, and avoiding the sharing of cups, bottles or towels.
Dr Babu Ramachandran
Meanwhile, AMH general practitioner and primary care head Dr Babu Ramachandran told the GDN that around 40 per cent of his patients are currently suffering from viral infections – a figure he expects could rise once people come back from the holidays.
He noted that influenza vaccines provide strong protection, but said many patients still request antibiotics when they are not needed.
“Most of what we are seeing are viral infections, which do not require antibiotics and I explain this to my patients,” Dr Ramachandran said, adding that with adequate rest, a balanced diet and proper hydration, most patients recover within a week.
However, he advised seeking medical attention if symptoms persist or worsen so a healthcare professional can assess the condition.
Dr Chellaraja Chellasamy
AMH pulmonologist Dr Chellaraja Chellasamy told the GDN he has been seeing flu cases characterised by rapid spread and a high fever at the onset.
“The current variant appears to be Influenza Type A, sub-variant or Clade K,” he noted. “Throat pain with difficulty swallowing is a predominant symptom, with fever, chills, muscle aches and a dry cough often developing within hours.”
He explained that symptoms typically peak within one to two days, with recovery taking up to 10 to 15 days even with treatment. “Hospitalisation rates also seem to be higher than with the usual seasonal flu,” he added.
Dr Chellasamy noted that travel plays a significant role in the spread, with many people reporting flu symptoms within hours of arrival in the kingdom.
He emphasised that measures such as regular handwashing, wearing face masks, using air purifiers or improving indoor ventilation, and self-isolating when symptomatic are effective in limiting transmission.
He also urged people to seek immediate medical attention if they experience chest tightness, wheezing, fever above 39C, a drop in oxygen levels below 94 per cent, or a cough producing phlegm.
The Health Ministry, in collaboration with Primary Healthcare Centres, launched the 2025 seasonal flu vaccination campaign in September as part of ongoing efforts to promote the health and safety of staff. It also aims to raise awareness on the importance of seasonal vaccination as a preventive measure while promoting a safe and healthy working environment.
julia@gdnmedia.bh
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