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Bahraini Pilgrims Stockpiling Antivirals to Combat Killer Virus

Sandeep Singh Grewal

07/12/2013

July 12--Medics accompanying Bahraini pilgrims to Saudi Arabia in October are stocking up on extra drug supplies due to concerns over a killer virus.

The Haj medical team will be equipped with more than 300 types of medicines to protect an estimated 15,000 Bahraini pilgrims against infectious diseases, Health Ministry Haj medical committee head Dr Ali Al Baqqara told the GDN yesterday.

A nationwide media campaign is also being lined up to educate pilgrims about the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV), which has so far killed 44 patients -- 38 of them in Saudi Arabia.

Dr Al Baqqara yesterday briefed Health Minister Sadiq Al Shehabi on preparations for the pilgrimage.

"Last year, the Bahrain Haj medical team had 294 types of drugs and this year, because of the increasing threat of the MERS-CoV and related infections, we will be carrying more medicines as a precaution," said Dr Al Baqqara.

He said it was also key to let people know that no cases of the virus had yet been reported in Bahrain.

"We need to allay fears among pilgrims and tell them that Bahrain is free from the virus," added Dr Al Baqqara.

"If everybody follows hygiene measures, the infection can be contained."

The Bahraini medical team will set up a clinic at Mecca consisting of doctors, nurses, food inspectors, paramedics and pharmacists.

He added all pilgrims must visit their nearest health centre for a routine medical check-up that included blood pressure and blood sugar tests.

Bahraini travellers will be provided with three types of vaccinations before crossing the border, where they will be closely monitored and undergo thorough medical tests after returning.

"Our main focus will be on those pilgrims who suffer from chronic diseases such as diabetes, asthma, and sickle cell disease. We advise them to take care of their health, or even delay their travel if they are not fit," said Dr Al Baqqara.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) says it is aware of 80 laboratory-confirmed cases of MERS-CoV infections, including those in which patients died.

Although the virus has been likened to Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (Sars), the WHO is not recommending any restrictions on travel to Saudi Arabia or the screening of passengers at airports or other entry points. sandy@gdn.com.bh