Healthy Hajj: Pilgrims urged to be aware of MERS-CoV
Public Health Wales is urging Hajj pilgrims to be aware of and take precautions against catching MERS-CoV, sometimes also referred to as ‘camel flu’.
While a cough and occasional shortness of breath may not be uncommon for summer travellers, Hajj pilgrims journeying to and from Mecca this year should be advised these symptoms could potentially be signs of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV).
The annual Muslim pilgrimage to Mecca in Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), known as the Hajj, is due to take place between 19 to 24 August this year, and will include many travellers from Wales.
MERS-CoV is a viral respiratory disease, sometimes also called camel flu due to growing evidence that camels may be a source of infection.
Symptoms can include:
• Fever
• Coughing
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
Saudi Arabia has reported over 150 cases across the country since January 2019, mainly amongst KSA residents.
MERS-CoV can also spread person-to-person if there is close contact. It is important to practise good personal, hand and respiratory hygiene including covering your mouth when coughing or sneezing, using tissue or the upper sleeve, and washing your hands with soap and water regularly.
The risk of infection to Welsh residents journeying to the Middle East remains very low and Public Health Wales, NaTHNaC and the World Health Organization do not currently advise any travel restrictions to KSA in relation to MERS-CoV.
If individuals should experience MERS-CoV symptoms within 14 days of leaving the Middle East, they are urged call their GP immediately or NHS Direct and mention their travel history.
Dr Giri Shankar, Professional Lead Consultant for Health Protection, said: “We strongly advise travellers to the Middle East to practice good hand hygiene, avoid contact with camels and consuming camel products in order to ensure that they have a safe and healthy Hajj.”
Additional information can be found via the following link: