The Ministry of Health (MOH) has called for vigilance after the first Middle East Respiratory Syndrome-coronavirus (MERS-CoV) death was reported in Malaysia.
The man contracted MERS-CoV — which causes acute respiratory illness much like the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) coronavirus — when he travelled to Saudi Arabia on a pilgrimage.
As of April 15, the MOH reported that all 33 suspected cases here, all with a travel history to the Middle East, had tested negative for the coronavirus. While no cases have been detected thus far, the MOH said that, “given today’s globalised travel patterns, the possibility of an imported case here cannot be ruled out.”
Health advisories are now in place at border checkpoints for incoming travellers from areas affected by MERS-CoV, as well as for outgoing travellers to these affected areas. The Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS) will also work with the relevant travel agents to ensure that MOH’s Health Advisory is provided to Umrah and Haj pilgrims.
Singaporeans travelling to affected areas are advised to practise good personal hygiene, such as frequent hand washing and avoiding close contact with animals and those suffering from acute respiratory infections like coughing.
Umrah and Haj pilgrims should also be vaccinated against influenza and meningitis and consult a doctor before travelling if they suffer from pre-existing chronic medical conditions.
If unwell with fever and cough, these individuals should wear a surgical mask and seek medical attention promptly, informing the doctor of the areas that they have travelled to.
Photo: AFP
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