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Khaleej Times
11-07-2025
- Health
- Khaleej Times
Are public pools abroad safe? UAE experts weigh in on hygiene, chlorine rash risks
As residents travel abroad, medics in the UAE are urging everyone to be cautious while using public pools, bathhouses or going to water parks. While a refreshing dip in the pool is a popular way to beat the summer heat, doctors caution that not all pools are as safe and clean as they might seem. Recommended For You Poorly maintained pools can serve as breeding grounds for parasites, bacteria, and viruses — potentially leading to a range of illnesses including diarrhoea, skin rashes, ear infections, and even respiratory issues. Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels. According to Verywell Health , the average adult swallows about one tablespoon of pool water during a 45-minute swim — 'more than enough to make you sick,' according to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The data further reveals that a person can bring 10 million microbes into a pool from their hair alone. Hands can carry another five million, and just one drop of spit can add eight million more. While not all microbes are harmful, some pose serious health risks. Dr Sherin Hussain, Specialist Internal Medicine at Medeor Hospital Abu Dhabi, highlighted the difference in pool maintenance standards across countries. 'Unlike the well-maintained pools in the UAE, swimming in poorly maintained pools can lead to stomach issues, skin rashes, and ear infections due to the presence of bacteria and parasites. In rare cases, contaminated aerosols may also trigger respiratory infections.' 'To prevent chlorine rashes and infections, make it a habit to shower both before and after swimming. Avoid swimming with open cuts, apply barrier creams, and use swim caps and earplugs,' added Hussain. Although pools and water parks are commonly treated with chlorine and bromine to kill germs, they are not sterile environments. What is Cryptosporidium? In fact, some microbes such as Cryptosporidium — a parasite responsible for waterborne diarrhoea — can survive in well-maintained pools for over 10 days. The CDC advises staying out of water for at least two weeks after recovering from diarrhoea. Even small amounts of faecal matter — equivalent to just 'a few grains of sand' — can wash off bodies and contaminate pool water. Dr Mazza Salahaldin, Specialist Family Medicine at NMC Specialty Hospital, Al Ain, warned of a variety of health issues associated with unclean pool water. 'These risks can stem from exposure to bacteria, viruses, and parasites in the water, or from chemical irritants used to maintain the pool. Gastrointestinal illnesses can happen by swallowing contaminated pool water can lead to diarrhoea, vomiting, and stomach cramps, often caused by bacteria like E. coli, Salmonella, or viruses like Norovirus. Bacterial skin infections can occur if bacteria enter through cuts or scrapes, or if the pool water is contaminated with bacteria like Staphylococcus. Swimmer's ear, an infection of the outer ear canal, can result from water remaining in the ear for extended periods.' How often should public pools be cleaned? Doctors frequently treat swimmers for eye and ear infections, high fever, stomach cramps, and diarrhoea after exposure to unkempt swimming facilities. Vulnerable groups such as children, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems are especially at risk of more severe symptoms. Dr Salahaldin added, 'Legionella bacteria, which can cause Legionnaires' disease, can be present in pool water and inhaled through mist or aerosols leading to respiratory infections. While uncommon, eye infections like Acanthamoeba keratitis can occur from contaminated pool water. Over-chlorination or sensitivity to chlorine can cause skin irritation, dryness, itching, and rashes.' Health professionals advise that public pools be cleaned at least two to three times per week and that the water should be changed at least once a month to maintain hygiene standards. Dr Mohamed Sufiyan Shajahan, Specialist Internal Medicine at Aster Clinic, Nuaimiah, Ajman emphasised the need for stricter protocols during peak travel seasons. 'During peak seasons, crowded pools need strict maintenance. Proper chlorination, filtration and public hygiene practices are essential and should be encouraged to prevent waterborne diseases.'
Khaleej Times
07-07-2025
- Health
- Khaleej Times
Dubai: Cramped shared rooms raise respiratory, mental health risks, doctors warn
Living in a shared accommodation with many housemates packed into a single room brings more than noisy neighbours and bathroom queues; it also poses serious physical and mental health problems, according to some doctors in Dubai. With Dubai Municipality cracking down on illegal partitions and overcrowded flats, healthcare professionals hailed the initiative as a timely and much-needed step towards promoting better public health. Residents living in overcrowded or partitioned spaces often visit with repeated respiratory and skin infections, stomach issues, and aggravated chronic conditions, said Dr Dharmendra Panchal, an internal medicine specialist at Medeor Hospital, Dubai. ' Respiratory infections like flu, bronchitis, and even TB (tuberculosis) are common in such living conditions due to poor ventilation,' Dr Panchal said. 'We also see skin infections, stomach problems, and in diabetic patients, even severe complications like hypoglycemia or ketoacidosis.' Cramped flats often lack proper air circulation, which increases humidity and creates a breeding ground for mold and bacteria. 'When airflow is blocked and many people are in one room, we see a rise in breathing problems and worsening of asthma,' he added. During the summer months, residents in such accommodations are also at higher risk of dehydration, fainting spells, and heat exhaustion. 'Rooms without windows or ventilation can become extremely hot,' he said, noting: "They avoid drinking water to minimise bathroom visits, making the risk (even) worse." He also noted that many patients delay seeking treatment because of financial or logistical issues. 'This poses risks not just to them, but to others at their workplace or in shared homes.' Skin problems on the rise Dr Shahrzad Mojtabavi Naeini, a GP with International Modern Hospital, said overcrowded housing has led to a rise in dermatological complaints. 'I see many patients with bed bug bites, fungal infections, or bacterial conditions like impetigo or folliculitis,' she said. 'These are directly linked to poor hygiene, damp floors, and shared personal items in overcrowded flats.' She added that people also develop long-term skin problems due to unwashed clothes and lack of clean towels. 'Infections spread easily in shared living spaces. Even something simple like athlete's foot can become chronic.' She also said that the crackdown isn't just about housing laws, it's about healthier lives. 'Less crowding means less illness,' said Dr Naeini. No peace, no privacy From a mental health point of view, overcrowded housing also takes a serious toll. Dr Nada Omer Mohamed Elbashir, a consultant psychiatrist at Burjeel Hospital, said the lack of personal space can slowly damage mental health. 'People feel exposed, anxious, and constantly alert. They don't get proper sleep, and are often irritable or emotionally drained,' she said. 'Noise and lack of privacy make it hard to rest or even think clearly.' She noted that more patients now report sleep issues, anxiety, and low mood. 'When your home doesn't feel safe or peaceful, your mind never truly switches off,' she added. Doctors agree that reducing overcrowding will not only improve the quality of life for residents but also ease the burden on Dubai's clinics and hospitals. 'Dubai Municipality is doing the right thing when it comes to healthy living,' said Dr Shahrzad. 'They are not just enforcing rules — they are protecting people.'
Arabian Business
24-06-2025
- Business
- Arabian Business
Burjeel Holdings acquires the Medeor Hospital building in Bur Dubai
Healthcare provider Burjeel Holdings has acquired the Medeor 24×7 Hospital building, located near BurJuman Centre in Bur Dubai for AED170 million ($46.3 million). The Medeor 24×7 Hospital served as a trusted community healthcare provider in Bur Dubai for over a decade. Prior to the acquisition, it was operated under a long-term lease agreement, the company said in a statement. The remaining fixed rental commitment was of approximately AED343 million ($93.4 million) over the next 15 years. The strategic transaction eliminates that significant liability and replaces it with asset ownership in a high-performing and strategically located facility. Burjeel Holdings acquires Medeor Hospital building The hospital's infrastructure is already optimised for efficient healthcare delivery and supports potential upgrades such as day surgeries and specialty clinics. By securing full control of the hospital, Burjeel Holdings will ensure uninterrupted operations and avoid the risks and costs associated with relocation. It also enhances operational flexibility, allowing for future expansion, reconfiguration, and diversification of services without the landlord's restrictions. This acquisition aligns with Burjeel's long-term strategy to enhance operational control, reduce fixed lease liabilities, and reinforce its asset base in strategic locations. The hospital's location and strong patient volumes align with Burjeel Holdings' regional growth objectives, as it prioritises an increased presence across Dubai and the Northern Emirates, regions with strong demographic demand and high potential for scalable service delivery. John Sunil, CEO of Burjeel Holdings, commented: 'This acquisition reflects our disciplined capital strategy and commitment to long-term value creation. By transitioning from leasehold to ownership in a key market, we reinforce our operational resilience and strengthen our platform for growth. 'Dubai, along with the Northern Emirates, remains a central focus of our expansion strategy, and securing full control of this asset enables us to deepen our presence and better serve these high-demand markets.' Established in 2015, Medeor 24×7 Hospital is a multi-specialty hospital, offering a wide range of services, including mother and childcare, congenital malformation surgeries of the brain and spine, cardiology and various speciality surgeries. The hospital also houses a College of American Pathologists-accredited laboratory.
Arabian Business
04-06-2025
- Climate
- Arabian Business
UAE doctors call for precaution as heat-related illnesses soar amid rising temperatures
Medical professionals across the UAE are urging residents to take precautionary measures as hospitals report an increase in heat-related illnesses during the country's summer months. Dr Abdelgader Siddig, Specialist Internal Medicine at Medeor Hospital, Abu Dhabi, explains that heatstroke occurs when body temperature rises above 40°C, leading to potential organ damage and requiring immediate medical attention. Heat exhaustion, while less severe, still presents serious symptoms including headache, heavy sweating, weakness, and nausea. UAE summer heat safety: Doctors issue precaution advice amid rising temperatures 'Watch for dizziness, nausea, rapid and strong pulse, heavy sweating, fainting, or confusion,' Dr Siddig told Arabian Business. Echoing the sentiment, Dr Rajesh Kumar Gupta, Specialist Internal Medicine at Burjeel Specialty Hospital, Sharjah, defines heatstroke as a condition when 'the body gets overheated greater than 40°C and can't cool itself down,' noting that heatstroke involves changes in mental status while heat exhaustion does not. Both doctors identify outdoor workers as facing the highest risk due to constant exposure to high temperatures with limited access to shade, cool water, or air-conditioned rest areas. Children and elderly individuals also face vulnerability due to immature body functioning and physiological debility respectively. To prevent heat-related problems, medical professionals recommend staying indoors during peak heat hours, using fans or air conditioning, wearing lightweight, light-coloured clothing, and avoiding strenuous activity during the hottest parts of the day. Hydration is key Hydration remains critical, with doctors recommending consumption of two to three litres of water daily. Dr Gupta specifies drinking 'small amounts of water frequently, approximately 30-50 ml every 20-30 minutes' to replace fluid loss through sweating. Medical professionals advise avoiding alcohol, caffeine, fried and oily foods, sugary drinks, and high-protein meats as these can increase dehydration. For those required to work outdoors, doctors recommend loose, lightweight, light-coloured clothing, wide-brimmed hats, and sunscreen application. 'Light-coloured, loose-fitting cotton material long-sleeved shirts and pants for breathability and moisture-wicking, along with hats and sunglasses' are advisable, Dr Gupta said. Children require particular attention, with parents advised to ensure adequate water intake, appropriate clothing, and limited outdoor play during peak heat hours. 'Parents should never leave children in cars unattended, as advised by the UAE government,' he added. Elderly individuals and those with health conditions should stay in air-conditioned environments, drink fluids regularly, and avoid strenuous exercise. Dr Gupta recommends they 'undergo regular health check-ups, and limit frequent indoor visits with friends or family members to reduce exposure to direct sunlight.' In cases of suspected heatstroke, medical professionals stress the importance of immediate action: calling emergency services, moving the person to a cooler place, applying cool water to the skin, and offering cool drinks if the person remains conscious. Medical attention becomes necessary when symptoms worsen or when confusion, fainting, or body temperature above 40°C occurs. Dr Gupta specifies that 'anyone experiencing a high-grade fever of 40°C, dizziness or fainting, confusion, agitation, slurred speech, or inability to sweat should go to the doctor or hospital immediately to prevent organ damage.' Both doctors confirm an increase in heat-related cases. 'Yes, with increasing temperatures, there is a rise in heat-related illnesses,' Dr Siddig said. 'Cases with high-risk groups like children, the elderly, diabetics, obese, and heart patients are seeing an increase,' Dr Gupta added. The medical warnings coincide with the UAE's implementation of the Midday Break, prohibiting work under direct sunlight and in open-air spaces between 12.30 PM and 3 PM from June 15 to September 15, 2025. This marks the 21 st consecutive year of the initiative. We announce the implementation of the Midday Break, prohibiting work under direct sunlight and in open-air spaces between 12:30 pm and 3:00 pm, from 15 June to 15 September 2025. Now in its 21st consecutive year, the Midday Break is rooted in a sustainability-centred approach… — وزارة الموارد البشرية والتوطين (@MOHRE_UAE) June 3, 2025 The regulations require companies to provide necessary supplies including shaded areas, cooling equipment such as fans, adequate drinking water quantities, and hydration supplements like electrolytes approved by local authorities. Exemptions apply to work that must continue uninterrupted for technical reasons, such as laying asphalt or pouring concrete, and activities addressing hazards or repairs affecting community services like water or electricity supply. The Ministry monitors compliance through its system and welcomes reports of violations through its call centre at 600 590000, website, or smart application. Companies violating regulations face fines of AED5,000 per worker per breach, with maximum penalties reaching AED50,000 if multiple workers are found in violation. 'Stay informed about weather forecasts, use cooling devices like fans or air conditioners, and avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours,' Dr Siddig said, emphasising on the importance of regularly checking on vulnerable individuals, including the elderly and those with chronic illnesses, during extreme heat waves. 'Keep well informed about the risk of heat-related health issues, take proper precautions, and seek immediate help or visit a doctor in case of an emergency for heatstroke,' Dr Gupta concluded.
