A new case of MERS-CoV (Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus) is recently reported in Qatar, marking the country’s first case of the disease in 2017.
The patient was identified as a 62-year-old male expatriate, according to a statement translated and posted by Avian Flu Diary, an infectious disease blog, from Qatar’s Ministry of Health.
This case raises Qatar’s total to 19 since MERS-CoV was first detected in that country in 2012. The Ministry of Health revealed that 7 of those 19 patients have died.
Upon further testing, it was ruled that the infection was more likely acquired locally instead of it being travel-related. The patient was said to be suffering from comorbidities, including chronic illnesses, and did not report traveling outside the country or having contact with any symptomatic people in recent weeks. Over the course of time before he was diagnosed he had a fever, night sweats, and abdominal pain.
As of now, there is no current vaccine against the viral respiratory disease so it is advised that everyone should be diligent about their health choices.
Despite not having any case reported yet in the UAE this year, it is always best to follow proper hygiene practices like regular hand-washing and exercise healthy habits to reduce the risk of getting not just MERS-CoV, but also any kind of transmitted disease.
Furthermore, if you ever find yourself feeling unwell with symptoms syncing up with that of MERS-CoV, immediately get checked by a professional so you can be treated right away.
