The Saudi Arabia Ministry of Health reported an additional infection of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) from a patient in Mecca. The 60-year-old male expatriate is reportedly hospitalized in critical condition.
The probable source of the infection is noted as direct contact with camels. The World Health Organization (WHO) says people may acquire the infection after exposure to animals or animal products (for example, following contact with dromedaries).
They recommend that patients with underlying conditions like diabetes, renal failure, chronic lung disease, and immunocompromised persons avoid close contact with animals, particularly camels, when visiting farms, markets, or barn areas where the virus is known to be potentially circulating. General hygiene measures, such as regular hand washing before and after touching animals and avoiding contact with sick animals, should be adhered to.
To date, Saudi Arabia officials put the MERS-CoV tally at 1,554 cases, including 646 deaths (41 percent CFR).
Related:
MERS has in no way blown out like we once thought it might. Less broad spreading and lethal. After all this time, I am doubting it will mutate or increase. Far from first blush fears.