Corona virus claims two lives

Muscat, Feb 4 - The Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) has claimed two lives in the Sultanate, while five people have been diagnosed with the disease, the Ministry of Health (MoH) has said. Patients are receiving necessary medical care at one of the referral hospitals. The ministry, in a statement, urged citizens and residents to comply with the preventive measures to control infection and to practise healthy habits when sneezing or coughing. Symptoms of corona virus patients are similar to any other respiratory infection, which include runny nose, cough, sore throat, and sometimes fever, said the ministry. The ministry, while reiterating its continued efforts in monitoring and controlling the disease, has called upon everyone to seek information from reliable sources. The ministry also thanked community members for their cooperation and understanding of the precautionary measures for ensuring their safety and reducing the spread of infections. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries has confirmed the absence of corona virus in cattle and camels of the Sultanate. The ministry said it has conducted necessary sampling and follow-up of herds of cattle and camels in the homes of citizens suspected of contracting the disease. The results of laboratory tests showed the absence of the virus in animals. In a statement, the ministry expressed its deepest condolences to the families of the victims, and confirmed that the cattle in the Sultanate are free from the virus to date.