Pathfinder
Editor, Senior Moderator
Public Health Agency of Canada
Novel coronavirus in the Middle East
Released: November 28, 2012
Travel Health Notice
A novel (new) coronavirus has been identified in a small number of cases of persons who went to or came from Saudi Arabia or Qatar. Coronaviruses are the cause of the common cold but can also be the cause of more severe illnesses including Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS). At this time, there is still more to learn about this new virus. What is known is that this virus is different from any other that has been found to date in humans and animals. Symptoms may include fever, coughing and difficulty breathing.
The World Health Organization continues to work with relevant ministries of health and other international partners to support investigations to gain a better understanding of the disease and its risks.
Recommendations
Consult a doctor, nurse or health care provider, or visit a travel health clinic at least six weeks before you travel.
Novel coronavirus in the Middle East
Released: November 28, 2012
Travel Health Notice
A novel (new) coronavirus has been identified in a small number of cases of persons who went to or came from Saudi Arabia or Qatar. Coronaviruses are the cause of the common cold but can also be the cause of more severe illnesses including Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS). At this time, there is still more to learn about this new virus. What is known is that this virus is different from any other that has been found to date in humans and animals. Symptoms may include fever, coughing and difficulty breathing.
The World Health Organization continues to work with relevant ministries of health and other international partners to support investigations to gain a better understanding of the disease and its risks.
Recommendations
Consult a doctor, nurse or health care provider, or visit a travel health clinic at least six weeks before you travel.
- Protect yourself and others from the spread of germs and influenza-like illness
- If you are sick with symptoms from an influenza-like illness, delay travel or stay home:
- Travellers should recognize signs and symptoms of influenza-like illness, and delay travel or stay home if not feeling well.
- Travellers should note that they may be subject to quarantine measures in some countries including Saudi Arabia if showing flu-like symptoms.
- Wash your hands frequently:
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with your hands as germs can be spread this way. For example, if you touch a doorknob that has germs on it then touch your mouth, you can get sick.
- By washing your hands with soap under warm running water for at least 20 seconds, you will reduce your chance of getting sick.
- Use alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not readily available. It's a good idea to keep some with you in your pocket or purse when you travel.
- Practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette:
- Cover your mouth and nose with your arm to reduce the spread of germs. Remember if you use a tissue, dispose of it as soon as possible and wash your hands afterwards.
- Try to avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- If you are sick with symptoms from an influenza-like illness, delay travel or stay home:
- Stay up-to-date with your vaccinations
- There is no vaccine for this novel coronavirus, however, it is important to be up-to-date on all of your routine and recommended vaccinations, including this year's seasonal flu vaccine, prior to travel.
- Monitor your health
- If you develop symptoms that cause difficulty breathing upon your return to Canada:
- Seek medical attention immediately.
- Tell your health care provider which countries you have visited while travelling.
- If you develop symptoms that cause difficulty breathing upon your return to Canada: