NewsDesk @bactiman63

The World Health Organization reports the Oman IHR-NFP notified them of a case of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV) on January 5.

Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus
Image/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID)

The case, a 60-year-old male, non-healthcare worker, with comorbidities, who is a resident of North Batinah Governorate, developed symptoms including chest discomfort, shortness of breath, and fever on 28 December which lasted for six days.

On 2 January, he was taken to the emergency department of a secondary hospital where he was admitted to the Cardiology Unit for non-invasive ventilation. Prior to admission at the hospital, the case sought medical attention in two healthcare facilities for his symptoms. The case subsequently showed clinical and radiological improvement and was discharged on 16 January 2023.

Investigation of the history of exposure to the known risk factors in the 14 days prior to the onset of the symptoms identified camel racing exercises conducted in the same area as the patient’s residence in North Batinah Governorate. The case, a driving instructor by occupation, had no history of physical contact with dromedaries, goats, sheep or contact with camel products, milk, or urine.

Since the first MERS case in Oman in 2013, Oman has reported 26 cases of MERS-CoV including seven deaths (CFR 27%).