Introduction:
The Coronavirus causing the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV) is a highly infectious disease leading to high mortality rates. The infection is transmitted by the camels carrying the disease. This could happen either directly or indirectly, especially during visits to farms, markets, or barns where the virus is active. Washing hands, as part of general hygiene, should be done regularly, before and after contacting animals. Dealing with sick animals should also be avoided. Keeping food clean is also essential. Moreover, people should avoid drinking fresh camel milk or urine and eating undercooked meat.
It is now established that Coronavirus can be transmitted from one human to another. The majority of the infected cases are receiving medical care.
Symptoms:
Severe respiratory symptoms, accompanied by fever, cough, and shortness of breath.
Transmission:
Due to the lack of information about the properties of Coronavirus, doctors suggest that it can spread in ways similar to other contagious diseases, such as:
- Direct transmission through a patient's droplets during coughing or sneezing;
- Indirect transmission through touching surfaces and tools contaminated with the virus, then touching the mouth, nose, or eyes;
- Direct contact with patients, infected animals, or animal products.
Prevention:
There is no enough information on the characteristics and methods of transmission of this virus. MOH coordinates with the World Health Organization (WHO) and several international experts to learn more about it. Until further information is revealed, MOH advises citizens and visitors in KSA to adhere to health guidelines to limit the spread of influenza and respiratory infections in general. These guidelines include:
- Washing hands regularly with soap, water, or other disinfectants, especially after coughing, sneezing, or using bathrooms.
- Washing hands before and after eating or preparing food.
- Using tissues when coughing or sneezing to cover your mouth and nose then disposing of them in the garbage bin. If tissues are not available, use your inner elbow instead of your hands.
- Avoiding touching your nose and eyes with your hands. The infection could be passed into your body if you touch contaminated surfaces then your face.
- Wearing face masks only when you are visiting a sick person. Otherwise, they can be unnecessary, according to doctors.
- Maintaining healthy habits such as a healthy diet, exercise, and enough sleep can strengthen your immunity against infections.
- Maintaining personal hygiene.
- Avoiding contact with infected individuals.
- Seeking medical advice when need arises, and keeping up with the new information revealed by MOH about the disease.
MERS-CoV Vaccine:
There is no vaccine for MERS-CoV worldwide until now.
Treatment:
This disease does not have a vaccine or specific treatment until now. However, doctors agree that patients can be given supportive treatment to help their bodies deal with complications and lessen their impact until the dangerous phase is over.
MERS-CoV Videos:
What to do if you suspect you have MERS-CoV?
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How to prevent MERS-CoV?
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How is MERS-CoV transmitted?
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Tips for pilgrims: #MERS_CoV and respiratory infection
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Fighting Infections of #MERS_CoV in Workplaces
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Fighting of #MERS_CoV at workplace
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Important guidance on the use of surgical masks
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Important guidance on the use of surgical masks to prevent #MERS_CoV
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Guidelines on dealing with camels for protection against #MERS_CoV
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Click here to to stay protected .If you suspect you have MERS-CoV symptoms, call 937. #We_can_stop_it
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A life-saving surgical mask. If you suspect you have MERS-CoV symptoms, call 937. #We_can_stop_it
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A simple behavior that can protect you. If you suspect you have MERS-CoV symptoms, call 937. #We_can_stop_it
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Measures to be taken on the admission of a MERS-CoV case to a hospital
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Boil camel milk before use #We_can_stop_it
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Your safety is your responsibility #We_can_stop_it
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Don’t bring infection to your family #We_can_stop_it
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Your awareness protects your kids #We_can_stop_it
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MERS-CoV general public infographic video - AR
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MERS-CoV general public infographic video - EN
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MERS-CoV health worker infographic video - EN
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Coronavirus (MERS_CoV)
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What do you know about Coronavirus (MERS-CoV)?
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Infographics: