MERSCOV Update

Men wearing surgical masks as a precautionary measure against the novel coronavirus, speak at a hospital in Khobar city in Dammam May 23, 2013. Saudi Arabia has announced another death from the SARS-like novel coronavirus (nCoV) in its central al-Qassim region, bringing the total number of deaths in the kingdom to 17. REUTERS/Stringer (SAUDI ARABIA - Tags: HEALTH SOCIETY) - RTXZY14[/caption]

The Department of Health (DOH) today reported that the 36-year old foreigner who was tested positive of MERSCoV (Middle East Respiratory Syndrome-Corona Virus) is now free of the virus after yielding two negative results. The patient will be discharged over the weekend.

                                

However, the 32-year old female close contact of the said foreigner will remain at the hospital and complete the 14-day quarantine period.

The DOH also disclosed that 112 contacts that were possibly exposed to the said foreigner were already traced. They are now being monitored daily by the Regional Epidemiology Surveillance Unit until they complete the 14-day observation period.

On the other hand, the World Health Organization (WHO) still does not recommend the imposition of any travel, trade, or screening restrictions related to MERSCoV. However, it is advised that travelers coming from MERSCoV- infected countries should maintain a high level of vigilance and self-care.

Health Secretary Janette P. Loreto-Garin reiterated her call to Filipinos who have returned recently from MERSCoV-infected countries to report to the nearest hospital if they experience symptoms like flu, fever with cough, cold, sneezing, or even diarrhea. Also, she stressed out the importance of filling-out the health declaration checklist completely and with utmost honesty.

“Kaya nating panatilihing ligtas ang ating bansa kung lahat tayo gagampanan ang ating papel. Sama-sama nating sugpuin ang MERSCoV”. Garin concluded.

For those needing assistance and information on MERSCOV, they can call anytime on the following telephone numbers: (02) 711-1001; (02)711-1002; 0922-884-1564; 0920-949-8419; 0915-772-5621.