UAE weather alert: Doctors warn soaring heat driving surge in food poisoning cases

Dubai: As summer temperatures soar across the UAE, doctors are warning of a noticeable uptick in cases of food poisoning and diarrhoea. The extreme heat creates a perfect breeding ground for bacteria, especially when food is not stored, handled, or prepared properly, medical experts say.

“We do tend to see a spike in food poisoning cases during the hotter months,” said Dr Ahmed Javid, Specialist in Internal Medicine at Zulekha Hospital Dubai.

“The rise in cases is mostly due to rotavirus and bacteria such as Salmonella. High temperatures create the perfect environment for bacteria to grow quickly on food, especially if it's not stored or handled properly,” Dr Javid noted.

According to Dr Shoiab Yousuf, Specialist in Internal Medicine at NMC Royal Medical Centre, Ras Al Khaimah, those most at risk include young children under five, the elderly over 65, and individuals with weakened immune systems. This includes pregnant women, cancer patients, people with HIV, diabetics, and those on immunosuppressive medication.

“Increased dehydration and water contamination also contribute to the rise in infections,” Dr Yousuf noted. “In temperate climates, we see seasonal peaks in gastroenteritis caused by Salmonella, Campylobacter, and parasites like Giardia and Cryptosporidium. In viral cases, Norovirus is the most common.”

Doctors caution residents to seek medical help if they experience severe or prolonged symptoms.

“Red-flag signs include bloody or mucus-filled diarrhoea, high fever over 38.9 degrees Celsius, persistent vomiting, or signs of dehydration like dizziness and reduced urination,” said Dr Yousuf.

“At higher temperatures, bacteria multiply much faster,” explained Dr Unni Rajasekharan Nair, Consultant in Internal Medicine at Medcare Royal Speciality Hospital.

“The danger zone for bacterial growth is between 5 degrees Celsius and 60 degrees Celsius. In hot weather, food left out even for a short while can rapidly reach temperatures within this zone, accelerating spoilage and increasing the risk of food poisoning. Heat also breaks down food’s natural preservatives, hastening deterioration in taste, smell, and safety.”

Common culprits of summer-related food poisoning include unrefrigerated dairy, improperly cooked or stored meat, seafood, and food left out at picnics or buffets.
“In children, dehydration from diarrhoea can be particularly dangerous,” Dr Nair noted.

Doctors strongly advise residents to follow key food safety practices.

“To stay safe, people should wash their hands and kitchen surfaces regularly, keep raw and cooked foods separate to avoid cross-contamination,” Dr Javid said.
“Cook food thoroughly, and refrigerate leftovers without delay. Try to limit eating food from outside, especially if you're unsure about hygiene, and stick to freshly prepared meals at home whenever possible,” Dr Javid added.