From a few sniffles to a chesty cough, headache and runny nose, any changes to air-conditioned environments, temperature and a population of constant travelers are culprits often slapped with the blame of different viruses, according to an expert.

 

Dr Ashraf Allam, regional vice president, Mundipharma Middle East and Africa region, said an example of this is the Middle East Respiratory Coronavirus, a coronavirus which causes acute respiratory illness in infected patients.

 

The World Health Organisation (WHO) estimated that approximately 36 per cent of patients suffering from the respiratory infection have died, since it was first identified in Saudi Arabia in 2012.

 

The practitioners across the world are cautioned to look out for symptoms of the virus to stop it from spreading. 

 

As there is no available vaccine or specific treatment for Mers, the best way to protect oneself is to maintain personal hygiene. 

 

It is one of the reasons why the WHO, along with many healthcare authorities in different countries, including the US, Canada, Saudi Arabia, and Australia, are placing a heavy emphasis on hand hygiene.

 

Dr Allam has provided tips to protect oneself against various virus included Mers while travelling. They include:

 

1.  Wash your hands frequently - wash your hands regularly with antiseptic soap and water. This is particularly important in public toilets, when travelling, in hospital or in restaurants.

 

2.  Avoid touching your face - avoid touching your face with your hand to prevent spreading the virus after being in contact with dirty surfaces.

 

3.  Practice proper hygiene at home and in public places: use a handkerchief - when you sneeze or cough use a handkerchief or tissue to cover your nose and mouth. Dispose of the tissue immediately.

 

4.  Wear a surgical mask when visiting people with illness.

 

5.  Disinfect items in public space - when travelling, carry alcohol-based disinfectant wipes to sanitise your surroundings (overhead compartment latch, seatbelt, in-flight entertainment screen and controls, tray table)

 

6.  See a doctor after coming in close contact with someone who has the Mers infection and you have fallen sick with fever, go see your doctor immediately.

 

7.  Build up your immune system by making healthy food and beverage choices. - TradeArabia News Service