The CDC has been carefully monitoring the outbreak of MERS, or Middle East Respiratory Syndrome. MERS is a novel coronavirus, or in other words a new virus that is unrelated to existing strains found in people. Of the people infected about half die and the virus is confirmed to be contagious between people. Most importantly, this disease like many others is spread by close contact and can be prevented by proper hygiene. From the CDC website article on MERS:
CDC advises that people follow these tips to help prevent respiratory illnesses:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds, and help young children do the same. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze then throw the tissue in the trash.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact, such as kissing, or sharing cups or eating utensils, with sick people.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces, such as toys, desktops and doorknobs.
So far the disease is not present in the US , but this could change very rapidly and proper hygiene and cleaning procedures can drastically reduce risk and liability. Please contact us to make sure your facility is ready to prevent the spread of direct contact diseases.
