"While MERS-CoV has not become a health emergency, Indonesian Hajj pilgrims should still be wary of its infection," Secretary General at the Health Ministry Kunta Wibawa Dasa Nugraha said here, Friday.
MERS-CoV originated in the Middle East, and it is the derivative of the corona virus that can cause respiratory system disease as well as death.
To this day, there is no specific vaccine that can prevent infection due to MERS-CoV.
The MERS-CoV disease infects through droplets during direct contact with patients.
"Hajj pilgrims are expected to diligently wash their hands using soap and flowing water or with disinfectant," he noted.
"Moreover, it is also important to use masks while carrying out activities, especially among crowds and to cover your nose and mouth when sneezing and coughing," he stated.
Moreover, if Hajj pilgrims encounter health problems, they should immediately consult with the nearby health workers.
"We expect Hajj pilgrims to continue to implement health protocols, maintain proper condition of their body with adequate rest and consumption of nutritious foods. If the body is healthy, then the Hajj will be smooth," he remarked.
Moreover, Hajj pilgrims should be wary of COVID-19. While it is no longer a global health emergency, new COVID-19 cases still emerge until this day.
"Because of this, Hajj pilgrims are implored to complete the COVID-19 vaccination. Complete vaccination dose is very important in breaking the chain of infection," he remarked.
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Translator: Andi Firdaus, Fadhli Ruhman
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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