MERS: 10 facts you should know
The recent outbreak of Mers in the region poses a very serious threat to all of us. To increase public awareness about the virus, here are some facts you should know:
1. Some cases are asymptomatic
The disease can hit you without you knowing it. Some cases reported in Saudi Arabia didn’t show any symptoms. People are advised to always maintain good hygiene to avoid being infected.
2. Quarantine among hospitals can help prevent spread
Strict infection control and isolation procedures should always be observed by hospital staff to help stop the disease from affecting other people.
3. Wearing masks does not guarantee prevention
Even if you wear a mask or another form of barrier, it doesn’t help at all. Observing proper hygiene is always advised.
4. Having a PCR test can help diagnose Mers
It is a specialized test that you can take at select laboratories. Sadly, there is no cure for Mers, but only preventive treatments.
5. It came to humans from bats
Like SARS, Mers spreads easily among animals that live in confined spaces. Studies suggest that the source of virus are bats from Saudi Arabia. Contact with bats and infected animals caused the disease to transfer to humans.
6. Respiratory problems are not the usual symptoms
Fever, cough and difficulty in breathing are some of the symptoms reported for Mers. However, patients diagnosed with the virus also suffered from multi-organ failure.
7. It usually takes seven to 10 days to develop symptoms
The advantage of having a long incubation period helps detect more persons infected, so that they can be quarantined.
8. It is not a cold virus
Unlike the H1N1 virus that attacks as a cold virus, Mers affects the lungs, which causes pneumonia or kidney failure.
9. Improve your immune system to avoid infection
According to reports, pregnant women and those with weak immune system are more susceptible to the disease. However, prolonged close contact with patients can also infect even healthy persons.
10. Covering your mouth while sneezing is a good start
You may not realize it, but even this simple measure taught in schools can help.
Source: Khaleej Times
Published: 17 Apr 2014
Category: Features, Wellness and Complementary Therapies
