MERS-CoV testing voluntary but encouraged for Pinoys in Saudi

Filipinos in Saudi Arabia were reminded this week to follow basic health practices to avoid getting Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV).
 
The Philippine Embassy in Riyadh also said MERS-CoV testing for Filipino workers was voluntary, including those who plan to return to the Philippines.
 
However, the embassy in a press release "strongly encouraged" Filipino workers in the health care sector and those who may have had contact with known MERS-CoV patients to voluntarily undergo MERS-CoV testing at least 14 days before traveling abroad.
 
It urged Filipinos in Saudi Arabia to strictly observe the following basic protection measures issued by the Department of Health in the Philippines and the Saudi Ministry of Health:
 
- Cover your mouth and nose with tissue when coughing or sneezing.
- Wash hands properly, especially after coughing, sneezing and using toilets.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Maintain good hygiene and have plenty of sleep, drink plenty of fluids and eat nutritious food to boost body resistance.
 
The embassy said all international airports in the Philippines are enforcing strict screening procedures for MERS-CoV and other infectious diseases.
 
"Filipinos who intend to travel to the Philippines are encouraged to undergo voluntary MERS-CoV screening before departing Saudi Arabia," it said.
 
On the other hand, the embassy advised Filipino health workers to follow infection control protocols in their workplace.
 
Those exposed to MERS-CoV patients may undergo voluntary MERS-CoV screening through their respective employers, especially if they plan to travel abroad.
 
Also, the embassy urged Filipinos in Saudi Arabia to get MERS-CoV updates from:
 
- Philippine Embassy (www.riyadhpe.dfa.gov.ph)
- Department of Health (www.doh.gov.ph)
- Saudi Ministry of Health (www.moh.gov.sa).
 
The embassy also offered hotlines where the public can relay information on possible MERS-CoV cases involving Filipinos and for clarifications on the official guidance:
 
- Philippine Embassy in Riyadh: +966 51 504 6362
- Philippine Consulate in Jeddah: +966 55 521 9613   —Joel Locsin/NB, GMA News

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