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The Ministry of Health of Saudi Arabia reports that there were 24 cases of MERS-Cov in the country in the week ending 16 February 2019. Cases were identified in five cities:
MERS-CoV is a serious respiratory infection with a high rate of fatalities. It is most common in Saudi Arabia where there are several cases each week.
The risk associated with MERS-CoV to the general UK population and travellers to the Arabian Peninsula and surrounding countries remains very low.
Although the source of the virus and the mechanism of transmission is unknown, it would be prudent to try to reduce the general risk of infection while travelling by:
Based on the information available, WHO does not advise special screening at points of entry with regard to this event nor does it currently recommend the application of any travel or trade restrictions.
For further advice see Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus and Hajj and Umrah pilgrimage.