According to reports, MERS kills by causing “respiratory or kidney failure, or septic shock, an infection that overwhelms the body’s defenses.” It also appears that men over 50 with either kidney or lung disease, diabetes or cancer treatments are most vulnerable to MERS.
Click “Continue Reading” to know what the symptoms of MERS-CoV.
What are the signs and symptoms of MERS-CoV?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, be on the lookout for the following signs and symptoms, especially if arriving from the Middle East or South Korea:
- Fever
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
- Diarrhea
- Nausea/vomiting
Click “Continue Reading” to know how you can protect your family from MERS-CoV.
How can I protect my family from MERS-CoV?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that you can protect your family by taking everyday preventive actions, such as:
- 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 an alcohol-based 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 personal contact, such as kissing, or sharing cups or eating utensils, with sick people.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces and objects, such as doorknobs.
The Department of Health goes on to say that it is important to build up one’s resistance by means of:
- Getting plenty of sleep
- Drinking fluids, and
- Eating nutritious food.
For more information on Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Corona Virus (MERSCoV), the Department of Health can be reached through its hotline: 711.1001 to 02.
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