With the approach of the flu season, we continue our pledge to keep you updated and informed of important health information relevant to this time of the year and to the region. New cases of coronavirus (MERS-CoV) continue to be reported in the Kingdom, however at the time being, most reported new cases are outside the western region. The Saudi Ministry of Health and the World Health Organization are monitoring all cases in the kingdom and worldwide. KMC is also following the situation closely and would like to remind you of valuable information to keep you protected against viruses in general.
What is Coronavirus?
Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that includes viruses which may cause a range of illnesses in humans, from the common cold to severe acute respiratory infections. Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) is a particular strain of coronavirus which has not been previously identified in humans. The total number of confirmed cases reported globally is 1,495, since the virus was first identified in 2012. At this time, the World Health Organization is not advising any special screening at points of entry, nor recommends any travel.
MERS-CoV is not easily spread and complications mostly occur in people who have other diseases and conditions that suppress their immune system.
Precautions
KAUST Medical Services (KMS) encourages both healthy people and individuals showing flu-like symptoms, to take precautionary measures and strongly recommends strict compliance to the following health guidelines to reduce the spread of viruses in general:
- Get the flu vaccine regularly.
- Use a tissue to cover the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing and then properly dispose of the used tissue in the trash.
- Wash hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds, especially after coughing or sneezing and help young children do the same. Rubbing hands well with a sanitizing solution is also effective if soap and water are not available.
- Try to avoid touching the eyes, nose, and mouth by an unwashed hand, because it can transmit the flu virus after touching surfaces contaminated with the virus
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces, such as doorknobs and children’s toys.
- Avoid crowded areas, sharing cups or eating utensils with febrile and coughing people, physical contact when greeting others, and close contact (when possible keep a distance of about one meter).
- Wear a face mask in large gathering and overcrowded places such as Hajj & Umrah.
- If you have a fever, cough, and shortness of breath for more than three days, visit your physician
- When visiting a farm or a barn, general hygiene measures, such as regular hand washing before and after touching animals, avoiding contact with sick animals, and following food hygiene practices, should be adhered to.
Helpful information can also be found:
KMS will share further updates with the KAUST community as needed.
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact KMS at 808 4111 during working hours or email patient-relation@kaust.edu.sa.