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Press Release

Update on latest MERS situation in Saudi Arabia

27 August 2015

The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (August 27) closely monitoring 29 additional cases of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS), including six deaths, reported to the World Health Organization (WHO) by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), and again urged the public to pay special attention to safety during travel, taking due consideration of health risks of the places of visit.

According to the WHO, the patients comprise 17 men and 12 women aged from 28 to 109 (median age: 63). Among them, 24 are associated with an outbreak in a hospital in the capital of the KSA, Riyadh, while one is related to a smaller outbreak in another hospital in Riyadh, 24 have underlying illnesses, four are contacts of previously confirmed patients and three are healthcare workers. In addition, one previously confirmed patient died.

"MERS cases reported by the KSA have sharply increased recently, from 16 in July to 77 in this month as of August 21. The majority relate to a hospital outbreak in Riyadh. Cases are likely to be exported to other areas by travellers, migrant workers or pilgrims. The healthcare sector and the public should pay special attention," a spokesman for the CHP said.

As the Hajj pilgrimage will begin in September, pilgrims visiting Mecca, the KSA, should be vigilant against MERS. Those with pre-existing major medical conditions, such as diabetes, chronic lung disease, chronic renal disease and immunodeficiency, are more likely to develop severe infections if they are exposed to MERS Coronavirus. Pilgrims should hence consult healthcare providers before travel to review the risk and assess whether pilgrimage is advisable.

Pilgrims visiting Mecca may refer to the DH's advice ( www.travelhealth.gov.hk/english/travel_special_needs/pilgrims.html ) or that from the Ministry of Health of the KSA ( www.moh.gov.sa/en/Hajj/Pages/HealthRegulations.aspx ).

To date, 1 461 cases have been reported to the WHO, including at least 514 deaths. Of note, 1 248 were confirmed in nine Middle East countries, including 1 130 in the KSA, 76 in the United Arab Emirates, 13 in Qatar, 12 in Jordan, six each in Iran and Oman, three in Kuwait, and one each in Lebanon and Yemen.

"Travellers to the Middle East should avoid going to farms, barns or markets with camels, avoid contact with sick persons and animals, especially camels, birds or poultry, and avoid unnecessary visits to healthcare facilities. We strongly advise travel agents organising tours to the Middle East to abstain from arranging camel rides and activities involving direct contact with camels, which are known risk factors for acquiring MERS Coronavirus," a spokesman for the CHP advised.

"We will maintain close communication with the WHO and relevant health authorities," the spokesman added.

Travellers to affected areas should maintain vigilance, adopt appropriate health precautions and take heed of personal, food and environmental hygiene. The public may visit the pages below for more information and health advice:

Tour leaders and tour guides operating overseas tours are advised to refer to the CHP's health advice on MERS ( www.chp.gov.hk/en/view_content/26551.html ).

27 Aug 2015