1. Chickenpox
Chickenpox is a highly contagious viral disease and is one of the most common diseases among children. The characteristics of Chickenpox are the pimples that spread on the whole body including the face. The rash is accompanied with flu-like symptoms including fever and headache. The pimples can be very itchy and can last for about two weeks and usually leave scars, if scratched. Chickenpox can lead to some complications like dermatitis and lung inflammation, in addition to nerve inflammations. The vaccine against Chickenpox is available in Dubai, and it is one of the vaccines proven most efficient in providing protection against the disease.

2. Whooping Cough
Whooping Cough is a serious bacterial disease that affects the respiratory system and it is highly contagious. In the past, Whooping Cough was considered a disease that afflicts children’s health only but it was later proven to be dangerous to adolescents and adults also. It can lead to:
• Strong and long term cough that lasts for months
• Difficulty in breathing and sleeping
• Strong cough that leads to vomiting in 50% – 70% of patients
• Other complications such as lung infection, rib fracture and infection of the central ear.
Adolescents and adults having low immune levels are considered nurturers of whooping cough germs and are the main source for transmitting the infection to young, not-fully vaccinated children. Children who are 6 years and above, need to get a booster vaccine of DTP that provides protection against Tetanus, Diphtheria and Whooping Cough, all at the same time.

3. Tetanus
Tetanus occurs due to bacteria living in soil. The microbe enters the body through polluted cuts from soil contact. Even those small injuries that affect children while playing can cause the infection. Tetanus is one of the most painful diseases affecting the muscles and can cause many other problems. It may lead to death if it remains untreated. Children who are 6 years and above, need to get a booster vaccine of DTP that provides protection from Tetanus, Diphtheria and Whooping Cough, all at the same time.

4. Diphtheria
Diphtheria is one of the most dangerous and contagious bacterial infections that starts with a throat infection and may develop to generate problems in breathing and suffocation. It may cause problems in the heart and the nervous system, and may lead to death in severe conditions. Children who are 6 years and above, need to get a booster vaccine of DTP that provides protection from Tetanus, Diphtheria and Whooping Cough, all at the same time.

5. Poliomyelitis
This disease results from a viral infection that affects the nervous system which leads to the paralysis of one or both limbs. Moreover, in some rare cases, paralysis may affect the respiratory muscles and consequently lead to death. It is recommended that children aged between 4 and 6 years get a booster vaccination against Polio.

6. Mumps
Mumps is a severe viral infection manifested by swollen glands and is usually accompanied with high temperature and headache. This disease may lead to some severe complications like Meningitis. It is recommended that children aged between 4 and 7 years receive a booster vaccination against the Mumps by administering one dose of the combined vaccine against Mumps, Measles and Rubella.

7. Rubella
Rubella is a viral infection that affects children in a mild manner. In some cases however it results in damage to the nervous system, especially adults. The infection gets more severe if it affects pregnant women as it can cause embryonic abnormalities and may consequently lead to miscarriage. It is recommended that children between 4 and 7 years receive a booster vaccination against Rubella by administering one dose of the combined vaccine against Mumps, Measles and Rubella.

8. Measles
A viral infection that mainly affects young children causing fever, conjunctivitis, coughing and a characteristic rash. The infection can lead to serious complications such as Pneumonia and Encephalitis. It is recommended that children aged between 4 and 7 years receive a booster vaccination against Measles by administering one dose of the combined vaccine Mumps, Measles and Rubella.

9. Meningococcal Meningitis
This disease usually strikes children, adolescents and people living in crowded conditions. The early symptoms of Meningcococcal Meningitis are similar to flu or migraines: high fever, headache, stiff neck, confusion, nausea, vomiting and exhaustion. Later a rash may appear. Meningococcal Meningitis is easily transmitted through air droplets and direct contact with infected persons (e.g. coughing, kissing or sharing utensils, drinking glasses, cigarettes, etc.). The vaccine is available in Dubai and protects children above 2 years of age and adults against Meningococcal Meningitis for approximately three to five years.

10. Hepatitis A
Hepatitis means inflammation of the liver. Hepatitis causes jaundice. Jaundice is the yellowish coloration of the skin and whites of the eyes. Hepatitis A virus is easily transmitted by eating or drinking contaminated food and water. Neglecting hand washing after visiting the toilet or changing a baby’s nappy or close contact with an infected person can all result in spreading infection from one person to another. Hepatitis makes people feel extremely weak and ill, can cause pain, diarrhea and vomiting. Sufferers of the virus won’t be able to go to school or work for several weeks. With age, the disease becomes more severe and dangerous. Vaccination is the most effective way to reduce Hepatitis A incidence. Therefore, the vaccine protects children as young as 12 months and older from contracting Hepatitis A.

Consult your family doctor or call 800 42212 for advice.

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