CDC issues travel notice for Middle East, UK in light of new coronavirus reports
In response to the 10 new confirmed cases of novel coronavirus reported from Saudi Arabia, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is advising travelers to the Middle East and the United Kingdom on how to protect themselves from the new virus.
According to the CDC, from April 2012 to April 2013, a total of 27 people from Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the United Kingdom, and the United Arab Emirates were confirmed to have an infection caused by the novel coronavirus. The case breakdown by country is as follows: Saudi Arabia (19), Qatar (2), Jordan (2), UK (3) and UAE (1).
Travelers to the area can protect themselves the same way they protect themselves from influenza and cold viruses:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth. Germs spread this way.
- Avoid close contact with sick people.
- Be sure you are up-to-date with all of your shots, and if possible, see your healthcare provider at least 4–6 weeks before travel to get any additional shots. Visit CDC’s Travelers’ Health website for more information on healthy travel.
- If you are sick
- Cover your mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, and throw the tissue in the trash.
- Avoid contact with other people to keep from infecting them.
CDC does not recommend that anyone change their travel plans because of these cases of the novel coronavirus. CDC recommends that US travelers to countries in or near the Arabian Peninsula monitor their health and see a doctor right away if they develop fever and symptoms of lower respiratory illness, such as cough or shortness of breath. They should tell the doctor about their recent travel.
2010 photo/Lasse Fuss
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