On August 29 WHO Disease Outbreak News post updating data on MERS cases since mid-September last year advised that three more infections - two fatal - have been recorded (in Riyadh, Asser and Makkah Al Mukarramah regions). All had comorbidities and known direct contact with camels or consumed raw camel milk in the previous fortnight, however there was no evidence of onward transmission of the virus to their contacts. Over 90 percent of global MERS infections have been in Saudi Arabia, and 84 percent of related deaths. The WHO report suggested that the recent decline in new MERS cases was probably influenced by ‘epidemiological surveillance activities for COVID-19 being prioritized and the similar clinical picture of both diseases, resulting in reduced testing and detection’. Read more
Advice for travellers
Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) is a rare but severe respiratory illness that originated in Middle Eastern countries. It is spread through close contact with camels, camel products, or an infected person.
Before you travel, call Travelvax Australia’s telephone advisory service on 1300 360 164 (toll-free from landlines) for country-specific advice and information. You can also make an appointment at your nearest Travelvax clinic to obtain vaccinations, medication to prevent or treat illness, and accessories for your journey.