Travel Health Notice
Updated: February 19, 2013
In fall 2012, a novel (new) coronavirus was identified in a small number of cases of persons who went to or came from Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Jordan.
A family cluster of three cases has recently been identified in the United Kingdom. The first case was confirmed in a resident of the United Kingdom with recent travel history to Pakistan and Saudi Arabia. Two additional cases from the same family have since been identified. They had no prior travel history. This suggests that these two new cases may have acquired the infection through human-to-human contact with the relative; however, the risk of contracting this infection is still considered to be very low. This brings the total number of confirmed coronavirus cases to 12, including five deaths.
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 novel coronavirus. All cases have experienced influenza-like illness including signs and symptoms of pneumonia which may include coughing, mucous, shortness of breath, malaise, chest pain and/or fever.
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 very low.
Recommendations
Consult a doctor, nurse or health care provider, or visit a travel health clinic at least six weeks before you travel...
