Okaz/Saudi Gazette JEDDAH — The Ministry of Health said a 49-year old man is the latest victim of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV). A source from the ministry said the new patient was in direct contact with camels. "The nature of the patient's work put him at high risk of contracting the coronavirus. The ministry also reported two coronavirus patients have died on Sunday and they both had records of chronic diseases. The first deceased patient is a Saudi man in his 60s from Najran and the second is a Saudi woman aged 67 years from Buraidah," said the source. The source also said the ministry reported that the total number of coronavirus patients since 2011 has reached 1,318. "Four of the coronavirus patients did not show any symptoms of the disease but were infected by the virus. A total of 745 patients recovered fully from the disease. A total of 559 of the patients have passed away. There are currently 14 patients still under treatment," said the source. The source also said people must follow the ministry's health and safety regulations and the preventive methods of coronavirus to decrease the risk of contracting it. "People working with camels and in butcheries must take extra precaution when dealing with camels and all cattle in general. They must wear medical masks and gloves when handling the animals, dead or alive. They must also take care of their personal and workplace hygiene," said the source. The source added the ministry is running regular inspection campaigns to ensure that all health institutes are following the health and safety regulations. "The ministry is monitoring the epidemic to ensure it controls its outbreak. The ministry further stresses the importance of taking these precautions and preventive measures seriously. Most camels carry the virus and people who come in direct contact with them must be fully aware of the virus and the disease," said the source.
