Distributed by e-mail October 18, 2013
The annual Hajj pilgrimage began on October 13 and concluded October 18 in Saudi Arabia. Over 1,300,000 foreign pilgrims attended this year’s Hajj.
From its first detection in April 2012 to today, the World Health Organization is reporting a total of 139 cases of Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus infections (MERS-CoV) and 60 deaths. Saudi Arabia is the source of the majority of MERS-CoV cases (~119 cases with 51 deaths).
Please be on the alert for travelers returning from the Hajj who may have signs and symptoms compatible with MERS-CoV, particularly a serious respiratory illness. Please contact the Health Unit if MERS-CoV is being considered in a returning traveler (519-663-5317 ext. 2330).
Available Resources:
- Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care’s web site about the diagnosis of MERS-CoV cases and infection prevention and control measures
- PIDAC Tools for Preparedness: Triage, Screening and Patient Management for Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-Co-V) Infections in Acute Care Settings; 2nd edition October 2013