Saudi man contracts MERS from camel

RIYADH: A Saudi man has contracted the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) through an infected camel in Turbah on Monday.
According to an official at the Ministry of Health, the 65-year-old man is currently in critical condition suffering from the virus which was suspected to have been caused by a camel in the town of Turbah in Makkah Province.
With the new case, the number of cases in the Kingdom since June 2012 has risen to 1,360, which includes 580 deaths.
The Ministry of Health has issued warnings to stay away from camels. Those who are working on the farms are advised to take maximum precautions against the virus by wearing face masks, isolating infected animals and following basic principles of hygiene.
According to the World Health Organization, studies have found MERS-CoV antibodies in camels across Africa and the Middle East. Human and camel genetic sequence data demonstrate a close link between the virus found in camels and that found in people.
“It is possible that other reservoirs exist. However, other animals, including goats, cows, sheep, water buffalo, swine and wild birds have been tested for antibodies to MERS-CoV, but so far none have been found in these animals. These combined studies support the premise that camels are a likely source of infection in humans.”
As a general precaution anyone visiting farms, markets, barns or other places where animals are present should practice general hygiene measures, including regular hand washing before and after touching animals, and avoiding contact with sick animals.
The consumption of raw or undercooked animal products, including milk and meat, carries a high risk of infection from a variety of organisms that might cause disease in humans. Animal products processed appropriately through cooking or pasteurization are safe for consumption, but should also be handled with care to avoid cross-contamination with uncooked foods.
Camel meat and camel milk are nutritious products that can continue to be consumed after pasteurization, cooking, or other heat treatments.
There are three major hospitals in Dammam, Riyadh and Jeddah that have been designated as centers of excellence to treat MERS patients. In addition to these facilities, the ministry has assigned 20 more well-equipped hospitals in all the health regions to look after MERS patients.