Saudi Arabia: MERS-CoV infects four people in June /update 1

Event

The Saudi Ministry of Health announced that four confirmed cased of Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV), including one associated death, were reported in the kingdom in June. According to the World Health Organization, 75 cases of the disease, including 23 deaths, were reported between January 21 and May 31. The most affected areas include Jeddah and Najran.

Context

Known disease vectors of MERS-CoV transmission include camels and, in rare cases, other humans. Symptoms of MERS-CoV include acute respiratory issues (e.g., shortness of breath), fever, cough, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. No vaccine is currently available.

Advice

All those present in Saudi Arabia are advised to take the necessary measures to protect themselves against contact with animals and individuals suspected of being infected. People exhibiting the above symptoms are advised to seek immediate medical attention.