Back-to-school health and safety guidance

As the new school year approaches, health and safety experts in the United States and the United Arab Emirates are issuing guidance to parents regarding student well-being.

In the United States, specifically in Snohomish County, Washington, health officials are observing National Immunization Awareness Month. The local health department is hosting free vaccination clinics for several school districts to provide required immunizations for children aged 18 and younger. Dr. James Lewis, the county health officer, stated there are no changes to current vaccine recommendations in the region.

In the United Arab Emirates, medical professionals are advising families to prioritize routine pediatric check-ups, nutrition, and the updating of vaccination records and booster doses. Experts also emphasize the importance of establishing healthy routines, such as regular sleep and physical activity, before students return to the classroom.

In addition to physical health, cybersecurity leaders in the UAE are warning parents about digital safety risks. These concerns include the rise of AI-powered threats such as deepfakes, misinformation, online scams, and cyberbullying, noting that AI applications are among the most searched categories for children globally.