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Hajj: NAHCON warns pilgrims against deadly virus, MERS

David Adenekan
David Adenekan
FG extends 2024 hajj registration, gives reason
Hajj pilgrims

Beware of an airborne corona virus and deadly syndrome called Middle East Respiratory Syndrome, MERS, the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, NAHCON, has warned Nigerians on hajj operation in Saudi Arabia.

The warning was given on Tuesday by the head of media and public affairs of NAHCON, Fatima Usara, in Abuja.

She said the warning followed the recent disclosure by the World Health Organization in Geneva that 14 cases had been recorded.

The deadly airborne viral infection, she explained, had no identified vaccine or definite medication.

As a preventive measure, it was advised, pilgrims should not eat half-cooked meat or drink untreated and unheated milk.

NAHCON also advised that proper hygiene must be observed all the time, particularly proper and constant washing of the hands with soap.

Alternatively, it said, constant use of hand sanitizers was recommended to prevent being infected with the virus.

Door knobs and other frequently used surfaces should be cleaned and disinfected at all times, NAHCON stated further in the statement issued.

“Pilgrims are also warned to specifically avoid coming in contact with animals, especially camels because the disease is normally passed through close contact with affected persons or animals.

“Pilgrims are advised not to use personal utensils of infected persons or directly take care of such persons whilst one has no medical expertise,” the statement reads.

“Pilgrims are also advised to immediately report any unusual fever accompanied with cough, shortness of breath and (or) pneumonia to the nearest health facility in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

“They are further being assured that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has made adequate provision for medical care of pilgrims from all over the world during the season.

“Similarly, Nigerian medical personnel and drugs are available 24 hours throughout the period of the 2019 Hajj operation in the interest of Nigerian pilgrims,” the statement reads further.

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