Qatar Detects Its First MERS Case After A Resident Is Exposed To Camels

A Case of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) has been confirmed

A case of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) has been confirmed according to the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH). The diagnosed case happens to be a 50 year old man who had direct contact with camels. 

On Tuesday, MoPh said the patient has been admitted to hospital to receive the necessary medical care according to the national protocol to deal with confirmed or suspected cases of the disease. 

The patient's contacts are free of symptoms and will be monitored for 14 days according to national protocols.

As part of its prevention and control measures, the MoPH works with other entities to prevent the spread of the illness.

MERS is a viral respiratory disease that is caused by one of the coronaviruses (MERS-CoV), but it differs from the novel coronavirus disease known as Covid-19. 

The most common symptoms of MERS include fever, coughing, and shortness of breath. Pneumonia may also occur, but not always. Diarrhoea and other stomach symptoms are also common.

Both MERS and Covid-19 differ in terms of the source of infection, mode of transmission and severity of the disease.

All members of the public, especially those with chronic diseases or immunodeficiency disorders, have been urged to follow public hygiene measures such as washing the hands regularly with water and soap, using hand sanitisers, and avoiding any contact with camels.

It is also important to seek medical advice when experiencing symptoms of fever, cough, sore throat, or shortness of breath