A majority of patients those who have recently contracted the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (Mers-CoV) in Saudi Arabia were health workers, according to a report.

 

The World Health Organization (WHO) report pointed to the 17 additional Mers cases, including three deaths reported by the Health Ministry, said the Arab News report.

 

Atleast 12 of the 17 confirmed Mers patients were healthcare workers, it said.

 

Based on the current situation and available information, WHO has encouraged all member states to continue their surveillance for acute respiratory infections and to carefully review any unusual patterns.

 

Infection prevention and control measures are critical to prevent the possible spread of MERS-CoV in health care facilities, the report added.