Updated: June 04, 2013
Travel Health Notice
Since April 2012, cases of the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV) have been identified in eight countries: France, Italy, Jordan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Tunisia, the United Arab Emirates and the United Kingdom (UK). The initial cases in France, Italy, Tunisia and the UK were linked to travel to the Middle East.Some of the infections have occurred in clusters through close contacts or in a health care setting. This suggests that the virus can spread between humans, however, there has been no sustained person-to-person transmission and the risk of contracting this infection is still considered to be low.
For the latest updates on MERS-CoV, including the total number of cases and deaths please visit the World Health Organization’s Global Alert and Response website
.Coronaviruses are the cause of the common cold but can also be the cause of more severe illnesses including Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS). At this time, there is still more to learn about this new strain of coronavirus. People who have been infected with MERS-CoV have experienced influenza-like illness with signs and symptoms of pneumonia, which may include coughing, mucous, shortness of breath, malaise, chest pain and/or fever. Many have also had gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea.
The World Health Organization continues to work with relevant ministries of health and other international partners to support investigations to gain a better understanding of the disease and its risks. There continues to be no travel restrictions as the risk to travellers remains low.
Recommendations
Consult a health care provider or visit a travel health clinic preferably six weeks before you travel.- Protect yourself and others from the spread of germs and influenza-like illness
- If you are sick with influenza-like symptoms, delay travel or stay home:
- Travellers should recognize signs and symptoms of influenza-like illness, and delay travel or stay home if not feeling well.
- Travellers should note that they may be subject to quarantine measures in some countries if showing flu-like symptoms.
- Travellers should recognize signs and symptoms
- Wash your hands frequently:
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with your hands as germs can be spread this way. For example, if you touch a doorknob that has germs on it then touch your mouth, you can get sick.
- By washing your hands with soap under warm running water for at least 20 seconds, you will reduce your chance of getting sick.
- Use alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not readily available. It’s a good idea to keep some with you in your pocket or purse when you travel.
- Practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette:
- Cover your mouth and nose with your arm to reduce the spread of germs. Remember if you use a tissue, dispose of it as soon as possible and wash your hands afterwards.
- Try to avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- If you are sick with influenza-like symptoms, delay travel or stay home:
- Stay up-to-date with your vaccinations
- There is no vaccine for MERS-CoV, however it is important to be up-to-date on all of your routine and recommended vaccinations prior to travel.
- Be aware that the risk may be higher for travellers with chronic medical conditions (e.g.: diabetes, heart disease) who may require medical care while abroad.
- Monitor your health
- If you develop influenza-like symptoms such as fever, cough and/or shortness of breath within 10 days after your return to Canada, especially if you have a chronic medical condition:
- Seek medical attention immediately.
- Tell your health care provider which countries you have visited while travelling.
- If you develop influenza-like symptoms such as fever, cough and/or shortness of breath within 10 days after your return to Canada, especially if you have a chronic medical condition:
