Health Ministry Warns Hajj Pilgrims of MERS-CoV

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The Indonesian Health Ministry called on pilgrims to be aware of the transmission of the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus or MERS-CoV. Pilgrims are highly advised to exercise a clean and healthy routine during the pilgrimage.

“Even though MERS-CoV has not yet become a health emergency, pilgrims must remain vigilant about its transmission,” said the Health Ministry Secretary General, Kunta Wibawa Dasa Nugraha, in a written statement on Friday, May 12, 2023.

Kunta explained that MERS-CoV, which was first discovered in the Middle East, is caused by a novel coronavirus that attacks the respiratory system and may lead to death. According to him, there is no specific vaccine to prevent this infection.

“MERS-CoV can be transmitted through direct contact with sufferers such as via droplets when the patient sneezes,” said Kunta.

He underlined that the most effective way to prevent virus transmission is to implement strict health protocols. He advised pilgrims to regularly wash their hands with soap and running water or hand sanitizer.

Using face masks or any mouth and nose coverings is also effective in preventing the virus transmission when doing activities in crowds. “And cover your nose and mouth when you sneeze and cough,” he added.

Kunta also asked pilgrims developing health problems to immediately consult with health workers in the holy land.

“We hope that the pilgrims will continue to implement health protocols, maintain body health by getting enough rest and eating nutritious food. If the body is healthy, the pilgrimage will run smoothly,” said Kunta.

Other than MERS-CoV, the Health Ministry Sec-Gen reminded pilgrims to be aware of COVID-19 even though it is no longer a global health emergency.

M ROSSENO AJI

Click here to get the latest news updates from Tempo in Google News