The Government said a female patient placed under medical observation after travelling to Macao from Saudi Arabia does not have the virus-borne condition Middle East respiratory syndrome, also known as MERS. Tests showed the 11-year-old patient was negative for the virus associated with MERS. The patient sought medical treatment at Kiang Wu Hospital in Taipa on Thursday (28 July) after complaining of fever and abdominal pain. She entered Macao on 27 July after leaving her country on 18 July. To date – and since the Health Bureau was notified by the World Health Organization (WHO) regarding the development of the virus – there have been no indications of MERS having a presence in Macao. Since WHO’s notification, the Government has strengthened its monitoring regarding non-specific pneumonia and other cases of respiratory infection. Typical symptoms of MERS – during the initial phase – include fever, cough and shortness of breath. People with an impaired immune system or with a chronic disease are considered to be at higher risk of MERS than other people. The Health Bureau advises residents – especially if travelling to the Middle East – to avoid visiting farms and having contact with animals; in particular camels and birds. The public is encouraged to practise good personal and environmental hygiene. Citizens should seek medical treatment immediately if they develop symptoms such as a fever or cough.
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