Letters: November 11, 2009

Unexpected side effects
Around two weeks ago my eldest son was diagnosed with swine flu. We were very upset when we heard the news. A few days later my husband, younger son and I developed a fever too. While I tested negative for the H1N1 virus, my husband and son contracted the disease. Tamiflu was prescribed for all three and thankfully they soon recovered. My husband had to take a week’s leave from work while the children missed two weeks of school. We were confined to our home. As advised by my husband, I did not disclose to anyone that my family had suffered from swine flu until they had completely recovered. However, some of the reactions were heartbreaking. A few friends and I employ the services of a common housemaid. When they found out that my husband and sons had contracted swine flu, they asked why I had not asked the housemaid to take leave. Some people stopped talking to us and I lost a dear friend, too. I request people not to hurt anyone — especially those who may already be in pain, by behaving in such a manner. While swine flu can happen to anyone, it is not as dangerous as we think it is. Simply take adequate rest and avoid public places — just like we did — so that others do not get affected.
From Ms Sophy A.
Sharjah
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Where do I go?
As a resident for many years, I have been to almost all the emirates in the UAE. However, I continue to find that road signs at most main junctions and roundabouts do not have proper signs for return routes to Dubai. While entering Al Ain and Abu Dhabi is not very difficult, taking an exit to Dubai is next to impossible.
One has to struggle due to the inadequate road signs leading to the city — one wrong turn and you are sure to lose your way. I request the concerned authorities seriously to consider installing signs which could display the names of all important areas leading to Dubai. This would ensure a safer and more comfortable journey for anyone visiting the UAE. They would be able to return with delightful memories from the beautiful country.
From Mr Javed Khatri
Dubai

Stuck for cash
I was amazed to note that certain petrol stations in Dubai do not have automated teller machines (ATMs) located on their premises. On a recent visit to a petrol station in Al Ghusais, I realized that I was short of cash and decided to withdraw money from an ATM. To my surprise, there was no such facility — neither in the area nor in the convenience store located on the premises. I had no option but to drive to the nearest ATM to withdraw some money.
When I checked with the staff at the convenience store, they advised me
to hand over my driving permit until I could return with the cash. I had no
choice but to agree. However, while searching for an ATM, I was very worried
that my licence would get misplaced.
Additionally, I was driving without a licence, which was another cause for concern — what would I do if I were to be stopped and questioned by the police? Fortunately, no such thing happened and I was soon able to locate an ATM. However, it was a great inconvenience for me to drive from one place to another in search of one.
Additionally, some ATMS are usually out of service, which leads to similar issues, too. I request the authorities to set up ATM machines in all areas and have these regularly maintained and manned by security personnel, for the safety and benefit of all customers.
From Mr Mathew Litty
Dubai

Test your health
Nowadays, many people seem to be unconcerned about getting their medical tests done. Health is something which should not be ignored or taken for granted. I feel that in order to remain healthy and fit, a regular health or medical check-up is vital.
If not frequently, it’s necessary to get such tests done at least once in two months.
Some people seem to have developed the belief that a medical examination is not necessary unless and until they fall ill. This is not right and must be discouraged. Health is wealth, hence the need for regular medical and fitness tests!
From Ms Fatima Suhail
Dubai