In this globalised era, it doesn't matter whether the disease originated from or where it is currently wrecking havoc in. People of diverse backgrounds cross borders all the time, being potential carriers of other viruses. Banning travel is obviously not a practical solution. We should not let our guards down, but we should not panic unduly either.
Preventing MERS is very similar to protecting yourself from flu. It all boils down to good sanitation practices and personal responsibility.
Observe good hygiene
Wash your hands frequently, especially before and after handling food, after going to the toilet, after touching shared surfaces that get plenty of human contact everyday, such as the handle bars and grab poles on the public transport and before coming in contact with the vulnerable such as babies and elderly.
If you have to cough, sneeze or spit, do so into a tissue, then throw the tissue into the bin. Wear a surgical mask if you are coughing and sneezing intermittently.
Avoid close contact with people who have influenza or respiratory problems. Avoid contact with stray animals, especially camels and bats, which are thought to be the original carriers of the disease. If contact has been made, sanitise your hands thoroughly with soap.
Go to the doctor if you exhibit symptoms
Symptoms are somewhat similar to the flu and you may be tempted to dismiss them, but considering that MERS has an almost 50% fatality rate, it would be unwise to be careless. Fever, cough and breathing difficulties are common symptoms.
The incubation period of the MERS virus is up to 14 days. If within 14 days you return from a MERS affected country and experience the symptoms, go to the hospital immediately. It is better to be safe than sorry.
Get vaccinated if you are in the high-risk group
People in this group include frequent travellers, those aged 65 above and/or have chronic medical conditions. There is no vaccination against MERS. However, the influenza vaccination will help to protect against various flu strains which have the potential to cause serious pneumococcal infections. Many clinics offer influenza vaccinations, including the polyclinics. Those in the high-risk group may use their medisave to pay for the vaccination. Do not wait till the eleventh hour to get vaccinated if you’re travelling, as it takes 2 weeks for protection to develop after vaccination. Children who have not been vaccinated previously against influenza will require 2 doses with the interval of 4 weeks. For adults, only 1 dose is required.
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