Nong Khai applies MERS surveillance to train stations & check points

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Nong Khai applies MERS-CoV surveillance to train stations & check points



NONG KHAI, 12 June 2015 (NNT) – In a bid to prevent the spread of Middle East respiratory syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV), disease control and immigration officials in Nong Khai province are joining hands applying surveillance measures to incoming passengers from infection-prone countries.

Particular attention has been given to visitors from South Korea and the Middle East. Surveillance measures include health screening, and recording of passengers’ information. The fatal virus has reportedly sickened more than 120 people and killed 10 in South Korea. There have been no confirmed cases in Thailand so far.

The Disease Control Department has suggested that Thai people traveling to risk-prone countries should prepare themselves before the trip. Thai people in infection-prone countries have been advised to protect themselves against the virus by avoiding visiting busy areas and washing their hands often. Those exhibiting flu-like symptoms within 14 days after their return to the country must wear face masks and see a doctor immediately.

According to the World Health Organization, so far there have been no specific treatments for MERS-CoV patients. What doctors can do is to provide patients with supportive care to relieve their symptoms and prevent the virus from spreading.

-- NNT 2015-06-12