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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (June 7) closely monitoring 14 additional cases of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) reported by Korea.
According to the health authority of Korea, they include:
* Three in-patients in Pyeongtaek St. Mary's Hospital;
* One in-patient of the same ward of another hospital in which another confirmed patient was admitted; and
* Nine patients and one healthcare worker who had stayed in or admitted to the emergency department of another hospital with another confirmed patient from May 27 to 29.
To date, 63 MERS cases have been reported by Korea. In addition, another case was exported from Korea to Mainland China.
"We again urge the public to pay special attention to safety during travel, taking due consideration of health risks of the places of visit," a spokesman for the CHP said.
"Travellers to the Middle East should avoid going to farms, barns or markets with camels, and avoid contact with sick persons and animals, especially camels, birds or poultry. They should also avoid unnecessary visits to health-care facilities (HCFs). In addition, in view of the latest situation in Korea, travellers should avoid unnecessary visits to HCFs in Korea," the spokesman advised.
The CHP will maintain close communication with the World Health Organization and the health authority of Korea. Members of the public and the healthcare sector should heighten vigilance and stay alert to the latest situation.
Ends/Sunday, June 7, 2015
Issued at HKT 17:52
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