MERS (Middle East Respiratory Syndrome) is a viral respiratory illness that emerged in 2012 in the Middle East. It is caused by the MERS-CoV (MERS coronavirus) and can lead to severe respiratory symptoms, such as fever, cough, and shortness of breath.

While the majority of MERS cases have been reported in the Arabian Peninsula, it is crucial to be aware of the essential measures for protection, regardless of your location. By following these six key strategies, you can significantly reduce the risk of contracting and spreading MERS.

1. Maintain Good Hand Hygiene

Proper hand hygiene is one of the most effective ways to prevent the transmission of respiratory illnesses, including MERS. Always wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially:.

Before and after eating
After using the restroom
After touching frequently-touched surfaces, such as doorknobs or handles
After coughing, sneezing, or blowing your nose

If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol content. Make sure to cover all areas of your hands and rub them together until dry.

2. Practice Respiratory Etiquette

Respiratory etiquette involves adopting certain behaviors to minimize the spread of respiratory droplets that may contain the MERS-CoV. Follow these guidelines to practice good respiratory etiquette:.

Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow when coughing or sneezing.
Dispose of used tissues immediately and properly.
Avoid touching your face, particularly your eyes, nose, and mouth, as these are entry points for the virus.
Wear a mask if you have respiratory symptoms or are taking care of someone with respiratory symptoms.

By adopting these practices, you can help prevent the spread of MERS-CoV to others around you.

3. Maintain Safe Distance

Maintaining a safe distance from individuals who have respiratory symptoms is crucial in minimizing the risk of MERS transmission. The MERS-CoV can be spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks.

Aim to keep at least six feet of distance from individuals displaying respiratory symptoms to reduce the chances of inhaling or coming into contact with infectious droplets.

4. Avoid Close Contact with Animals

While the exact origins of MERS-CoV are still being investigated, it is believed that camels may play a role as a host for the virus. To minimize the risk of MERS transmission, avoid close contact with camels, their bodily fluids, and their meat.

Cook all meat products thoroughly and practice proper food safety measures.

5. Follow Food Safety Guidelines

MERS-CoV can also be contracted through contaminated food or surfaces. Follow these food safety guidelines to reduce the risk of exposure:.

Wash your hands before and after handling food.
Cook meat and eggs thoroughly.
Avoid consuming raw or undercooked animal products.
Use different cutting boards for raw meat and other foods to prevent cross-contamination.
Clean and disinfect food preparation areas regularly.

By following these guidelines, you can minimize the risk of MERS transmission through contaminated food sources.

6. Stay Informed and Follow Public Health Recommendations

MERS-CoV is a constantly evolving virus, and it is essential to stay informed about the latest updates and recommendations from public health authorities.

Regularly check reliable sources, such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), for updates on MERS outbreaks, prevention measures, and travel advisories.

Following the guidelines provided by public health authorities and local governments is crucial in protecting yourself and others from MERS.

Stay updated on any travel restrictions, advisories, or additional preventive measures implemented in your area.

Conclusion

Protecting yourself and others from MERS requires a combination of personal responsibility and adherence to public health guidelines.

By maintaining good hand hygiene, practicing respiratory etiquette, maintaining a safe distance from individuals with respiratory symptoms, avoiding close contact with animals, following food safety guidelines, and staying informed about the latest recommendations, you can significantly reduce the risk of MERS transmission. Stay vigilant, prioritize your health, and contribute to the overall well-being of your community.