What to do if you suspect you have MERS-CoV?

(Baonghean.vn) - Compared to the 63 provinces and cities nationwide, Nghe An has the largest number of people studying and working in countries experiencing the MERS-CoV outbreak. Therefore, the risk of infection when these people return to the locality cannot be ruled out… To better understand the MERS-CoV epidemic, a reporter from Nghe An Newspaper had an interview with Dr. Bui Dinh Long - Director of the Nghe An Department of Health.

PV: Could you please tell us about the symptoms of MERS-CoV infection? Is there a specific treatment for MERS-CoV at this point?

Dr. Bui Dinh Long:Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS-CoV) is a Group A infectious disease caused by a novel strain of coronavirus (MERS-CoV). MERS-CoV presents with very common symptoms. Those infected experience symptoms such as fever, cough, and shortness of breath, often more severe than shortness of breath. These symptoms resemble pneumonia and bronchitis. Initial differentiation can only be determined by epidemiological factors, such as travel from an affected area or contact with individuals who have traveled from an affected area.

The disease is caused by a virus, so there is currently no specific cure; treatment mainly focuses on managing symptoms. There is also currently no vaccine to prevent the disease.

A delegation from the People's Committee of Nghe An province inspected the isolation room at the Department of Tropical Diseases, Friendship General Hospital of Nghe An province.

PV: So, do you have any recommendations for the public regarding the prevention and treatment of MERS-CoV?

Currently, people should not worry or panic excessively because the health sector has made good preparations in terms of equipment, medicines, and has plans for handling and emergency care when suspected MERS-CoV patients are detected. The health sector is currently focusing on early detection of patients, and upon detection, immediate isolation will be implemented.

The health sector's recommendation at this time is for people to proactively prevent the disease: Limit travel to areas experiencing outbreaks, such as the Middle East and South Korea. If travel is necessary, research the disease situation at your destination to proactively take measures to prevent infection; upon return, complete a health declaration form, monitor your health for 14 days, and immediately notify health authorities if you experience any suspected symptoms.

Everyone needs to practice good personal hygiene, wash hands frequently with soap, avoid touching their eyes, nose, and mouth; strengthen their health through a balanced diet, and maintain a healthy lifestyle with adequate rest. Limit contact with people suspected of having acute respiratory infections; when contact with sick people is necessary, wear a medical mask and maintain distance.

People with respiratory symptoms or suspected illness such as fever, cough, and shortness of breath should avoid traveling or going to crowded places; cover your mouth and nose with a cloth when coughing or sneezing to reduce the spread of respiratory secretions.

Thermal scanners at Vinh Airport detect individuals infected with MERS-CoV.

PV: Sir, when people show signs of illness, which medical facilities can they go to for treatment?

We have focused on preparing several medical facilities to receive and treat patients. Currently, the provincial Friendship General Hospital is responsible for admitting and treating patients. People returning from the Middle East and South Korea who experience symptoms such as fever, cough, and shortness of breath should immediately go to the Tropical Diseases Department of the provincial Friendship General Hospital for accurate diagnosis, isolation, and treatment.

When the above symptoms appear, patients and their families can immediately call the hotline number of the Provincial Friendship General Hospital - the main facility receiving and treating patients with MERS-CoV.0966.461.414For prompt advice and assistance./.

Thanh Son