280 dead in Saudi Arabia due to Mers virus

280 dead in Saudi Arabia due to Mers virus

06/04/2014

The Ministry of Health of Saudi Arabia has significantly increased the number of Mers dead in the country. 282 deaths and 688 infections with the dangerous virus have now been reported from the Kingdom. Travelers are advised to stay away from camels, among other things.

More deaths than expected
The number of people killed by the dangerous coronavirus Mers in Saudi Arabia appears to be much higher than previously thought. As the Ministry of Health in Riyadh announced, it has one „comprehensive review“ Since 2012, the data show a number of 282 dead and 688 infected. The evening before, there were still 190 dead and 575 infected. The undersecretary of state at the Ministry of Health had been dismissed shortly before the announcement of the new numbers without giving any reason. In April, the then Minister of Health and the head of the King Fahd Hospital had to leave their posts.

Mers has similarities with Sars
The coronavirus Mers (Middle East Respiratory Syndrome) was first identified in September 2012 in patients with severe respiratory infection. It's similar to the Sars virus. The Mers virus can cause flu-like symptoms, such as fever, shortness of breath and cough, but it can also lead to severe pneumonia. In addition, Mers unlike Sars also lead to kidney failure. While generally considered to be less infectious, the new pathogen is more likely to kill than many other infectious diseases. The new virus had its origin in Saudi Arabia, but in the meantime diseases have become known in numerous countries, including Europe and the USA. The World Health Organization (WHO) still does not see any global emergency at Mers.

Recommendations for travelers
The exact transmission paths are not yet clear. It is believed that camels bred in large numbers in Saudi Arabia and bats play a role in this. However, so far there is no official confirmation. There is no vaccine yet. But a few days ago, the news that European researchers have an active substance against Mers and Sars caused hope. Experts recommend that travelers avoid direct physical contact with people with respiratory problems and often wash their hands. In addition, it is advisable to stay away from camels and not to consume camel products. Also, the abandonment of raw vegetables and unpeeled fruit is recommended. (Ad)