9 Diseases that are Currently Banned in the UAE
To safeguard public health, the UAE has a list of diseases banned in the country. Like other countries, the UAE is likely to deport individuals with communicable diseases to put certain pathologies under control.
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Strict screening programs and mandatory testing help identify infected individuals early on, allowing appropriate management strategies to be implemented promptly. Adhering to preventive measures such as vaccination and safe hygiene practices is imperative before and during residency in the country.
In this Pacific Prime Dubai article, we will explore 9 diseases that are banned in the UAE due to their potential impact on public health. By understanding these regulations, we gain insight into the country’s priority in safeguarding its citizens’ well-being in an interconnected global community.
Overview
As we delve further into this article, you can expect to learn why these 9 diseases are banned in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the potential health hazards associated with the diseases, and how you can protect yourselves against these deadly diseases.
1. Tuberculosis (TB)
Tuberculosis (TB) is a highly contagious airborne disease caused by the bacteria Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The disease usually affects the lungs, but can also affect other parts of the body. It has been a global concern, with millions of new cases reported each year.
Tuberculosis is subdivided into active and latent forms. For the former, it can be treated by taking several drugs for 6 to 12 months. Patients must take the drugs as prescribed to prevent them from developing drug-resistant TB, which is harder and more expensive to treat.
Whereas for the latter, it is not contagious and the patient will not manifest any symptoms. That being said, it is still important to get treated to prevent you from progressing into active TB disease, if you have a weak immune system or pre-existing medical conditions.
All visitors or visa applicants in the UAE are required to take a compulsory TB screening. Resident expatriates found with TB germs will be issued a conditional fitness certificate and have to undergo treatment. Visa applicants will be strictly rejected from the country until recovery.
2. HIV/AIDS
HIV/AIDS is a global pandemic affecting millions of people worldwide. It can be transmitted in three ways: through blood, sexual contact, and maternal transmission. The disease is not treatable, and it is necessary for patients to take prescribed medications for life.
There are a few methods to minimize your exposure to the disease: practice safe sex, and avoid sharing drug injectors. Upon suspected or potential contact with the disease, contact a trusted medical center for an HIV-specific blood test. Early diagnosis boosts life expectancy and treatment outcomes.
Although the UAE ranks number one in the world for the lowest prevalence of HIV, it remains a sensitive topic in the country. Residents have low awareness and knowledge of the disease, hence the number of reported cases does not reflect the truth as they cannot self-diagnose it.
With the fact that HIV might potentially have a long latent period, residents have no clue to check for HIV. The virus is then transmitted unknowingly. Therefore, it is imperative for the government to ban this disease within its borders to prevent this disease.
To enforce this ban effectively, extensive testing mechanisms have been put in place at border checkpoints and during visa applications. These measures aim to safeguard the country’s health conditions by identifying HIV-infected individuals before they enter the country or obtain residency permits.
3. Hepatitis
Hepatitis is a group of viral infections that primarily affect the liver, causing inflammation and potentially leading to long-term complications. Both Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C are included in the list of deportable diseases due to their impact on public health.
Hepatitis B, caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV), is a highly contagious disease that can be transmitted through contact with infected blood or bodily fluids. Similarly, Hepatitis C (HCV) is another viral infection affecting the liver that can lead to chronic liver disease if left untreated.
The UAE government takes strict measures in controlling the spread of HCV due to its potential impact on public health. Robust screening programs and mandatory testing have been implemented for hepatitis, to ensure early detection and prompt management for infected individuals.
Screenings for this disease, along with syphilis, are mandatory for the following categories of workers:
- Workers in nurseries
- Domestic workers, including housemaids, nannies, and drivers
- Food handlers and workers in restaurants and cafes
- Workers in salons and beauty centers
- Workers in health clubs
4. Yellow Fever
Yellow Fever is a viral disease that is caused by the bite of infected mosquitoes, primarily the Aedes and Haemagogus species. This disease is characterized by symptoms such as high fever, jaundice (causing yellowing of the skin and eyes), muscle pain, headache, and nausea.
Yellow Fever is difficult to diagnose, especially during its early stages. More severe cases can be confused with malaria, leptospirosis, viral hepatitis, etc. There is no specific anti-viral drug for the disease; therefore, patients should rest, stay hydrated, and seek medical advice.
Although Yellow Fever is preventable with modern vaccination programs, it is still considered a high-impact high-threat disease in the UAE. It poses a significant threat in certain regions with less advanced medical technology. Hence, necessary to provide vaccination proof upon entry.
5. Measles
Measles is a contagious disease banned in the UAE. It is primarily transmitted through respiratory droplets and can cause a range of symptoms, including a high fever, cough, runny nose, and a distinctive rash. Severe complications may also occur, such as pneumonia, encephalitis, and even death.
The disease can spread quickly among non-immune or vaccinated individuals. Although it can affect anyone, it is most commonly seen in children under 5. Having no specific treatment, the disease totally depends on one’s immune system to fight off, making it dangerous for young and old populations.
In compliance with international standards for disease control and prevention, individuals suspected or confirmed with measles are subject to isolation protocols, along with vaccination requirements, as soon as they are identified. This helps minimize further transmission of the virus within communities.
6. MERS-CoV
Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV) is a highly contagious respiratory illness that was first identified in Saudi Arabia in 2012. The virus belongs to the same family as the common cold and severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS).
There have been cases of MERS-CoV reported in various countries around the world, including the UAE itself. Public awareness campaigns promoting hygiene practices such as regular handwashing and covering one’s mouth when coughing or sneezing help reinforce prevention efforts.
The transmission of MERS-CoV occurs primarily through close contact with infected individuals. This can happen through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes, or by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus and then touching one’s face.
The symptoms of MERS-CoV infection range from mild respiratory illnesses, such as fever, cough, and shortness of breath, to more severe complications like pneumonia and kidney failure. Given the seriousness of this disease and its potential impact on public health, the UAE has taken proactive measures to prevent its spread within its borders.
7. Zika Virus
The decision to ban the Zika Virus is driven by its harmful effects on vulnerable populations, particularly pregnant women and their unborn babies. The link between Zika infection during pregnancy and neonatal disorders underscores the urgency of preventive measures to mitigate any potential outbreak.
Zika, a mosquito-borne disease, gained significant attention globally due to its association with birth defects such as microcephaly or Gullain-Barre syndrome, a sickness of the nervous system in which a person’s own immune system attacks the nerve cells, causing muscle weakness or paralysis.
Although there are no reported cases in the UAE, there is a potential risk of transmission due to the high influx of international travelers. Therefore, it is essential to educate residents and tourists about preventive measures against mosquito bites, emphasizing personal protection methods.
8. Cholera
Cholera is caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae and is primarily transmitted through contaminated water and food. The infection is often mild, but can sometimes be severe and life-threatening.
The typical symptoms of Cholera include:
- Profuse watery diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Unquenchable thirst
- Leg cramps
- Restlessness or irritability
If left untreated, its outbreaks can lead to:
- Severe dehydration
- Kidney failure
- Shock
- Coma
- Death (within hours)
The government must take proactive measures. Public health authorities regularly disseminate information regarding preventive strategies and encourage individuals to maintain good hygiene practices such as frequent handwashing, and careful handling of food.
9. Typhoid Fever
Typhoid fever, caused by the bacterium Salmonella typhi, is a potentially life-threatening disease. It is primarily transmitted through contaminated food and water, making it crucial for authorities in the UAE to closely monitor and regulate their food and water supply systems.
The bacteria live only in humans. Infected people carry the bacteria in their bloodstream and intestinal tract, causing the following symptoms:
- Prolonged high fever
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Nausea
- Abdominal pain
- Constipation or diarrhoea
Some people may experience a rash. Severe cases may lead to serious complications or even death.
It can be treated with antibiotics. Even if the symptoms disappear, the patient may still be carrying the bacteria. Therefore, prevention methods should be practiced even after contamination with the disease.
By implementing stringent hygiene standards in the preparation and handling of food, as well as ensuring the safety of drinking water sources. By doing so, it is possible to minimize the risk of typhoid outbreaks within the UAE.
Alongside preventive measures, regular screenings and tests for individuals arriving or residing in the UAE are conducted to detect any cases of typhoid fever promptly. The screening process helps identify individuals who may be carriers of this disease but are asymptomatic.
Conclusion
While these bans may seem restrictive at first glance, they reflect a comprehensive approach to safeguarding public health in the UAE. By implementing stringent regulations and providing necessary support systems for disease control, a communicable disease-free society can be achieved.
What we can do to further protect ourselves as expats in the country is to ensure prompt access to advanced medical services, by securing international health insurance. Comprehensive health insurance will cover most of the medical expenditure, so you won’t have to pay hefty fees out of your pocket.
To help you find the best insurance plan for your needs and wants, you may want to work with an insurance broker like Pacific Prime. With over 20 years in the industry, we collaborate with renowned insurers across the world to provide a wide range of insurance products for your selection.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the banned diseases in Dubai?
To safeguard the country’s public health, communicable diseases are banned inside the country, including hepatitis B and C, Tuberculosis (TB), and HIV/AIDS. Residents inside the country may face deportation if tested positive, and visa applicants will be strictly rejected from its border.
Can I work in the UAE with one of the banned diseases?
Anyone tested positive for any of the banned diseases will be denied entry into the country. Any work permit application will be rejected. For Hepatitis B and C, a conditional fitness test will be issued for a year. After a year, the individual will be re-tested and granted entry if tested negative.
What are the communicable diseases in the UAE?
The communicable disease can be airborne, a viral infection through water and food, mosquito-borne, or sexually transmitted. For example. HIV/AIDs, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, Yellow Fever, Cholera, Typhoid Fever, Tuberculosis (TB), etc.
Since joining Pacific Prime, Eric was exposed to a new world of insurance. Having learned about insurance products extensively, he has taken joy and satisfaction in helping individuals and businesses manage risks and protect themselves against financial loss through the power of words.
Although born and raised in Hong Kong, he spent a quarter of his life living and studying in the UK. He believes his multicultural experience is a great asset in understanding the needs and wants of expats and globe-trotters.
Eric’s strengths lie in his strong research, analytical, and communication skills, obtained through his BA in Linguistics from the University of York and MSc in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) from the University of Bristol.
Outside of work, he enjoys some me-time gaming and reading on his own, occasionally going absolutely mental on a night out with friends.
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