As winter approaches, healthcare institutions across the UAE are gearing up for an anticipated surge in respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) cases, particularly among infants. This seasonal spike highlights the critical need for coordinated efforts among families, communities, and healthcare providers to mitigate the spread of the virus and protect vulnerable populations. RSV, a leading cause of infant hospitalizations globally, demands proactive measures to prevent severe outcomes. Dr. Markus Knuf, Head of the Children’s Hospital in Worms, Germany, and a Paediatric Infectious Disease Consultant at the University of Mainz, emphasized the success of Germany’s strategy, which reduced RSV-related hospitalizations by 80% through public awareness campaigns, preventive measures, and early interventions. This remarkable achievement underscores the importance of education and timely action in safeguarding children’s health. In the UAE, experts like Dr. Walid Abu Hammour, Head of the Infectious Disease Department at Al Jalila Children’s Specialty Hospital, and Dr. Eslam El Baroudy, Professor and Paediatric Consultant at Cairo University and Sheikh Khalifa Medical City, have highlighted the ease of RSV transmission through respiratory droplets and contaminated surfaces. They advocate for consistent preventive practices in households and schools, emphasizing the role of community-wide collaboration in minimizing risks. Sanofi’s General Manager for the Greater Gulf, Baptiste de Clarens, reiterated the company’s partnership with UAE healthcare authorities to promote preventive measures and raise public awareness. These collective efforts aim to ensure a safe and healthy start to the winter season for every child, while also alleviating strain on the healthcare system and fostering a culture of health awareness and shared responsibility.
