Update on latest MERS situation in Korea
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     The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (June 15) closely monitoring five additional cases of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) reported by Korea.

     According to the preliminary information of the health authority of Korea, they are:

* A patient who had contact with a confirmed case in the emergency room of Samsung Medical Center on May 27;
* A patient who had contact with another confirmed case in the out-patient clinic of a hospital on June 8;
* A healthcare worker who had contact with another confirmed case in Konyang University Hospital on June 3;
* A patient who had contact with another confirmed case in Dae-Cheong Hospital from May 22 to 28; and
* A patient who had contact with another confirmed case in Konkuk University Medical Centre on June 6.

     To date, 149 MERS cases have been confirmed 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.

     "In view of the latest situation in Korea, the public should avoid unnecessary travel to Korea, in particular those with chronic illnesses. Travellers in Korea and the Middle East should avoid unnecessary visits to healthcare facilities. In addition, 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," 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/Monday, June 15, 2015
Issued at HKT 11:27

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