As summer camps across the UAE prepare to begin within the next two weeks, doctors are urging parents to pay closer attention to heat-related illness, infections and early warning signs of dehydration.
This is especially important as children may spend a few hours outdoors during free play as well as time in shared indoor spaces.
Medical experts say the combination of extreme temperatures, active schedules and close contact environments creates an environment for common seasonal illnesses.
Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp channels.
Heat, hydration and early warning signs
Highlighting the biggest seasonal risks, specialists say heat-related illness remains the most immediate concern for children attending camps in extreme temperatures.
Dr Mohamed Elgezouli, specialist in Family Medicine at Sheikh Sultan Bin Zayed Hospital Sharjah, said, “Heat exhaustion and dehydration lead the list — teens push hard physically without realising how fast the body struggles above 45°C. Skin and eye infections spread quickly in shared pools and close quarters. Respiratory infections are common too, caused by the constant shift between intense outdoor heat and over-air-conditioned indoor spaces. Stomach bugs and food poisoning round things out, especially where bulk catering is involved.”
“With heat illness, watch for sudden confusion, irritability, a flushed face, or a teen who stops sweating during activity.”
Build a hydration habit
Medics have advised that children build a habit of hydration before they head to camps.
“Two to three litres daily, starting the week before, not day one. Confirm the camp has structured indoor breaks during peak heat hours (roughly 12pm–4pm). Pack light-coloured breathable clothing, a hat, and SPF50 sunscreen,” Elgezouli added.
Doctors note that early signs of heat stress are often missed because they appear mild at first, but can escalate quickly in high temperatures.
Infection spread
Beyond heat, specialists are also reporting a rise in common infections linked to close-contact environments, shared accommodation and group activities.
Dr Rupa Bakthavatchalu, paediatric specialist at NMC Medical Centre Safari Mall Sharjah said, “Gastrointestinal infection, stomach bugs like norovirus and other gastrointestinal infections are often spread through close contact and contaminated surface especially in shared living space
Respiratory infections like colds, flu spread easily in a camp environment due to close interaction among campers. Skin infection like hand foot mouth disease chicken pox infection is common. Ring worn thrive in warm and humid environment.”
She added that prevention begins before children even leave home, with practical preparation and awareness of hygiene risks.
“Pack children’s backpack with sunscreen, water bottle and snacks, insect repellent, first aid kit and basic medications like fever and cold medications. Make sure your child knows who to contact in case of emergency. Ensure your child’s vaccination are up to date and communicate any medical condition like allergy and carry medicine like EpiPen or dietary needs to the camp organiser.”
Symptoms that shouldn’t be ignored
Doctors point out that parents and camp supervisors should stay alert to subtle changes in behaviour, which can be early indicators of dehydration, heat stress or infection.
Dr Khaled Sayed Ahmed Youssef, paediatric specialist at Burjeel Specialty Hospital Sharjah said, “Parents and camp staff should be alert to subtle early symptoms, especially during hot weather. Early warning signs may include unusual tiredness, reduced participation in activities, irritability, mood changes, headache, increased thirst, dizziness, nausea, reduced urination, or dark-coloured urine. These signs should not be ignored, as they may indicate early dehydration or heat stress.”
He explained that symptoms can escalate quickly if not addressed early.
“Signs of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating, weakness, pale or clammy skin, muscle cramps, headache, nausea, vomiting, and light headedness. A child showing these symptoms should be moved to a cooler area, given fluids if alert and able to drink, and monitored closely.”
Dr Khaled stressed that heat stroke is a medical emergency requiring immediate intervention.
“Heat stroke is a medical emergency and requires urgent medical attention. Warning signs include confusion, altered behaviour, loss of consciousness, seizures, very high body temperature, and hot skin, which may be dry or still sweaty. Heat stroke can become life-threatening quickly, so immediate medical care is essential.”
Source: Khaleej Times