UKHSA reminds Hajj pilgrims of the risk of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS-CoV)

The UKHSA is reminding Hajj pilgrims in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia about the risk of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS-CoV).

The risk of infection to UK residents traveling to the Middle East remains very low; the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC), and the World Health Organization (WHO) do not currently advise any travel restrictions to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) due to Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS-CoV).

They urge pilgrims returning from Hajj and Umrah to be on the lookout for the following symptoms:

• fever
• coughing
• shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Individuals who experience these symptoms within 14 days of leaving the KSA should contact their GP or NHS 111 immediately and mention their travel history.

Camels can be a source of infection, so avoid contact with them and do not consume any camel products to avoid contracting MERS-CoV.

MERS-CoV can also be transmitted from person to person if there is close contact, so it is critical to practice good hand and respiratory hygiene, which includes covering your mouth when coughing or sneezing and regularly washing your hands with soap and water.

Dr Gavin Dabrera, lead for MERS-CoV at UKHSA, said:

“We strongly advise travellers to avoid contact with camels and consumption of camel products in the KSA and to practise good hand hygiene.

“Pilgrims returning from Hajj and Umrah with symptoms of fever and cough or shortness of breath within 14 days of leaving the KSA, should call their GP immediately or NHS 111 and report their travel.”

Dr Dipti Patel, director of NaTHNaC, said:

“Our information sheet for pilgrims includes information on health regulations, vaccine requirements and recommendations and other general health advice for those planning to travel for Hajj and Umrah.

Pilgrims are strongly advised to follow our specific guidance about staying safe and healthy when travelling.”

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