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The World Health Organization (WHO) has been notified of 4 additional cases of novel coronavirus infection. The additional cases were identified as part of the enhanced surveillance in Saudi Arabia (3 cases, including 1 death) and Qatar (1 case). This brings the total of laboratory confirmed cases to 6.
At present, only two of the most recently confirmed cases in Saudi Arabia are epidemiologically linked (family members). Preliminary investigations indicate that these 2 cases presented with similar symptoms of illness. One died and the other recovered.
Additionally, 2 other members of the family presented with similar symptoms, where one died and the other is recovering. Laboratory results of the fatal case is pending, while the case that is recovering tested negative for the novel coronavirus.
(Via Global Alert and Response - accessed 26/11/12)
Advice for Travellers
Novel coronavirus infection remains a low risk for travellers to the Middle East and there are no travel restrictions in place. There is no specific travel advice, however, any travellers returning from abroad with a fever and respiratory symptoms should consult with their GP for advice.
WHO is encouraging all Member States to continue surveillance for severe acute respiratory infections (SARI). Until further information becomes available, it should be considered that the virus is likely to be more widely distributed than the two countries which have identified cases.
Member States should consider testing of patients with unexplained pneumonias for the new coronavirus even in the absence of travel or other associations with the two affected countries. In addition, any clusters of SARI or SARI in health care workers should be thoroughly investigated regardless of where in the world they occur.
