Health Authority-Abu Dhabi's statement on MERS Coronavirus

Abu Dhabi (WAM): The Health Authority - Abu Dhabi (HAAD) has reassured citizens and residents in the Emirate on the MERS Coronavirus (MERS COV) illness status and asked the public to practise their daily life activities normally. HAAD calls all residents to avoid rumours and refer to official reliable sources for information on the illness. HAAD, in its statement, confirmed that the current situation is not a public health concern and that it is coordinating with the Ministry of Health (MoH) and other authorities in the country, and has taken all necessary measures as per international standards and recommendations from the World Health Organisation (WHO), including screenings for all contacts of affected individuals as per international standards and best practice. HAAD advises the public to follow these tips to help prevent respiratory illnesses: "Wash your hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds, and help young children do the same. If soap and water are not available, use hand sanitizer. Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze then throw the tissue in the trash. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands. Avoid close contact, such as kissing, sharing cups, or sharing eating utensils, with people with fever or flu-like illnesses Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces, such as toys and doorknobs. Wear masks in mass gatherings like Hajj or Umrah." HAAD stressed the need to follow information released about the illness by the Ministry of Health and health authorities. Cases of MERS COV have been reported by the WHO from 2012. The MoH stated that the WHO confirmed the virus is not a concern for public health at the moment, and that the current situation does not require a travel ban to any country in the world, screenings at different ports, or any restrictions on trade. MoH reassured everyone that globally, detected cases continue to be very low compared to other types of flu-like illness. The MOH confirmed that it is monitoring the situation closely to ensure the health and safety of everyone. MoH and Health Authorities along with the WHO are working closely with all government and health authorities to understand the risks of this virus and the way it spreads between people. – Emirates News Agency, WAM –