Coronavirus: the UAE's 'special message' for parents, the elderly and domestic workers

Dr Farida Al Hosani calls for patience and solidarity as social distancing leaves elderly feeling lonely

A woman walks by a closed shop in Dubai amid measures to curb the spread of coronavirus. AFP

Closed shops at the Utensil Souq in Deira, Dubai. Pawan Singh / The National

Clear skies and light traffic are seen in Abu Dhabi. Victor Besa / The National

A man wearing a face mask walks past a closed restaurant in Ajman. Chris Whiteoak / The National

Men wear a face masks on the beach front in Ajman. Chris Whiteoak / The National

The China Court section of Ibn Battuta Mall in Dubai stands almost empty. Pawan Singh / The National

UAE health authorities on Wednesday delivered a series of "special messages" to three central figures in the average household: the elderly, parents and domestic workers.

During a briefing, to update the public on the UAE's latest efforts in the fight against coronavirus, Dr Farida Al Hosani, spokeswoman for the country's health sector, said she had received numerous complaints from elderly members of the community, asking why they could no longer receive visits from their loved ones.

This is an extraordinary situation but we hope to pass through it together

They told her the UAE's regulations against public or private gatherings was causing them to become lonely and feel neglected by their families.

"We feel your pain and we respect your feelings," she said, addressing elderly Emiratis and residents.

"We are doing this because we want to protect you and your loved ones [from Covid-19]. We are physically distant but our hearts are with you.

"This is an extraordinary situation but we hope to pass through it together."

Dr Al Hosani's second message was aimed at parents, who she said now bore more responsibility because distance learning has been extended until the end of the academic year.

"You work, do housekeeping, manage family affairs and now you are teachers too."

She said, despite the hardship, families now had an opportunity to grow stronger bonds, "to be more coherent and more connected."

Finally, Dr Al Hosani addressed domestic helpers, who she described as the strongest support for a household.

"These are the ones who use household appliances and who answer the door for external requests."

She said families were responsible for making sure their domestic helpers were fully aware of the latest developments related to coronavirus, know how to protect themselves and how to keep homes free of the virus by following healthy practices.

"We salute all workers and employees in various sectors – those working from home or in offices. Because of your commitment, work is able to continue and this is contributing to the success of the country's national efforts."

On Wednesday, Dr Al Hosani also took the time to answer some frequently asked questions:

What is the best way to improve your immunity?

She said a healthy, balanced diet consisting of many fresh fruits and vegetables was ideal.

She recommended everyone exercise at home at least once a day using some of the online tools available.

Is having a chronic disease the main cause of death for Covid-19 patients?

Yes. Dr Al Hosani said they have found that people who have chronic illnesses, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, hypertension or respiratory issues, are among the most vulnerable to coronavirus. She said people aged 65 and above were also at risk and should abide by the preventive measures put in place to protect themselves against becoming infected.

Are there specific burial procedures in place for people who die of Covid-19?

Dr Al Hosani said any Muslims who die of the virus will be buried according to Sharia. Similarly, anyone from another religion will be buried according to their customs. She said extra measures were in place to avoid contracting any communicable diseases from the body.

Can you catch Covid-19 from your pet?

No. If someone has a respiratory illness, it is generally in their best interest to not be in direct contact with pets, she said.

She added that there are currently no studies that indicated the virus can be spread between humans and their pets but recommended everyone frequently wash their hands all the same.