9 Oct 2026
Fever in Children: When to Treat at Home and When to See a Doctor
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Flu Season in the UAE: Cold or Flu, Home Care, and When to See a Doctor
Flu cases in the UAE rise in the cooler months. Learn how to tell a cold from the flu, how to recover at home, who should get the flu vaccine, and when to see a doctor.
Quick answer
Flu starts suddenly with fever, body aches, tiredness and a dry cough, while a cold comes on gradually with a runny nose and sneezing. Most people recover at home in about a week with rest, fluids and fever medicine. See a doctor if symptoms are severe, last more than 10 days, or you are pregnant, elderly or have a long-term condition.
In the UAE, flu activity typically rises during the cooler months, from around October to March, when people spend more time indoors together. Most cases are unpleasant but manageable at home. Knowing the warning signs helps you decide when to see a doctor.
Is it a cold or the flu?
| Symptom | Cold | Flu |
|---|---|---|
| Onset | Gradual | Sudden |
| Fever | Rare or mild | Common, often high |
| Body aches | Mild | Strong |
| Tiredness | Mild | Can be extreme |
| Runny/blocked nose | Common | Sometimes |
| Sneezing | Common | Sometimes |
| Cough | Mild | Often dry and persistent |
| Headache | Rare | Common |
How to recover at home
- Rest and stay home to avoid spreading it to others
- Drink plenty of fluids: water, soups, warm drinks
- Use paracetamol or ibuprofen for fever and aches, as directed on the pack
- Honey and warm drinks can soothe a sore throat (not for babies under one year)
- Wash your hands often and cover coughs and sneezes
When to see a doctor
Book a GP appointment if:
- Symptoms last longer than 10 days or get worse after improving
- You have a high fever for more than 3 days
- You have ear pain, sinus pain or a cough producing coloured phlegm
- You are pregnant, over 65, or have diabetes, asthma, heart, lung or kidney disease
- Your child isn't drinking, is unusually sleepy, or you're worried
Seek emergency care (998) for difficulty breathing, chest pain, confusion, bluish lips, or a seizure.
Who should get the flu vaccine?
The flu vaccine is recommended every year, ideally before the season starts. It's especially important for:
- Adults over 50 and especially over 65
- Pregnant women
- People with long-term conditions such as diabetes, asthma or heart disease
- Healthcare workers and carers
- Young children
Ask your doctor or pharmacist where to get vaccinated this season.
Frequently asked questions
How long is flu contagious?
Usually from a day before symptoms start until about 5–7 days after. Children can be contagious for longer.
Can I go to work with the flu?
It's best to stay home until you've been fever-free for at least 24 hours without fever medicine. If your employer requires it, a doctor can provide a sick leave certificate after a consultation.
When should I worry about a cough?
See a doctor if a cough lasts more than three weeks, you cough up blood, or you have shortness of breath or chest pain.
Can I see a GP in Ajman this evening?
Yes. Our GP clinic is open until 9:30 PM, Monday to Saturday. Walk in or book online.
