Not Yet An Emergency, The Ministry Of Health Still Urges Candidates For Hajj Pilgrims To Beware Of MERS-CoV

Illustration - The Arrival of the Hajj Pilgrims for the Hang Nadim Batam Debarkation in the 2022 Hajj season. (ANTARA)

JAKARTA - The Ministry of Health urges prospective pilgrims to be aware of the transmission of the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Corona Virus (MERS-CoV) by implementing clean and healthy living behavior while worshiping in the Holy Land. "Although MERS-CoV has not yet become a health emergency, Indonesian pilgrims must remain aware of the transmission," said Secretary General of the Ministry of Health, Kunta Wibawa Dasa Nugraha in Jakarta, Antara, Friday, May 12. The MERS-CoV started in the Middle East and is a derivative of the coronavirus that can cause respiratory system disease and cause death. So far, no specific vaccine has been found in preventing infection due to the MERS-CoV. MERS-CoV disease is transmitted through phlegm splashes (droplets) during direct contact with patients. "Hajj pilgrims are expected to diligently wash their hands with soap and running water or with disinfectants. In addition, it is also important to wear masks when doing activities, especially in crowds and cover the nose and mouth when sneezing and coughing," he said. Furthermore, if the pilgrims have health problems, immediately consult with the health workers who accompany them at the worship site. “ We hope that the pilgrims will continue to apply health protocols, maintain their body condition with sufficient rest and eat nutritious food. If the body is healthy, the pilgrimage will run smoothly,” he said.

In line with MERS-CoV vigilance, pilgrims also need to be aware of COVID-19. Even though it is no longer a global health emergency, new cases of COVID-19 are still popping up today. "Therefore, pilgrims are advised to complete the COVID-19 vaccination. Complete dose vaccination is very important in breaking the chain of transmission," he said.