Yes you got it, although the experts say H1N1 is “nothing to worry about in Oman, and the “situation is under control “the H1N1 virus seems to be spreading like widfire. Residents of the Sultanate are reminded time and time again, the importance of avoiding crowded places, washing your hands, not greeting people with a handshake or kiss if you, or the other party is displaying flu like symptoms.

The delay of the schools reopening in Oman is perhaps an expression that the government really are worried about the virus, perhaps things are not as”under control “as they claim. 2 have died from the H1N1 virus and over 670 people already are infected with the strain of flu.

As if parents weren’t already tearing their hair out during the elongated school holidays. Temperatures in Oman have averages at 35 -40 degrees for the majority of the summer holidays. One thing I have noticed in Oman is that unless you have cash to make a membership in a club then there really isn’t anything to do, in terms of keeping the kids entertained during the summer break.

Now with H1N1 art large what can they do? Elderly people, Babies and children under 6 along with those that are already sick are repeatedly warned not to venture into crowded places. With Ramadan already in full swing are people going to hold back from their festivities in preparation for eid? – I think not!

Omani culture is love and peace, and part of that love is gathering at occasions, many hold iftaar invitations and heaps of people attend. The thing is although they may want to express their unity as a family by coming together to celebrate , the other thing to bear in mind is the fact that they could very easily pick up the virus.

Plates of food that multiple people have picked a snack off are a perfect breeding ground for the H1N1 bacteria. The traditional greeting with a handshake and kiss on each cheek (or nose , depending what tribe you originate from , and the washing before prayers , amongst crowds has the potential to see the virus spreading rapidly.

Lets hope for the best…..