According to the World Health Organization (WHO), a 28-year-old man has been confirmed positive for the potentially fatal Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV) in Al Ain, a city located in Abu Dhabi near the border with Oman. The man was admitted to the hospital last month, as stated by the WHO in a recent statement. Health officials have already checked 108 individuals who had been in contact with him, but no secondary infections have been reported thus far.
The WHO clarified that there were no indications that the man had come into contact with dromedary camels, which are known to spread the disease. MERS-CoV is distinct from COVID-19. The statement did not provide further details about the man’s current health condition.
As of WHO figures, cases of MERS-CoV have been recorded in 27 countries since 2012. The virus can cause symptoms such as fever, coughing, and shortness of breath, and in severe cases, it can lead to pneumonia. Over the years, 2,605 cases and 936 associated deaths have been reported.
The United Arab Emirates’ health ministry has not yet responded to inquiries regarding the recent case.
The UAE, being a hub for international events, is set to host the United Nations Climate Change Conference in November and December.
