RIYADH: A 72-year-old Saudi man on Sunday contracted Middle East Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) through an infected camel in Hail.

According to an official from the Ministry of Health, the latest infection was reported after a lull of six days.

Medical reports said the patient is out of danger and his condition is stable.

With the new case, the number of cases in the Kingdom since June 2012, has risen to 1,383 which includes 592 deaths. Three patients are currently under treatment in hospitals in the Kingdom.

The Ministry of Health has issued repeated warnings to stay away from camels. Those who work on farms are advised to take maximum precautions against the virus by wearing face masks, isolating infected animals and following the basic principles of hygiene.

According to the World Health Organization, studies have found MERS‐CoV antibodies in camels across Africa and the Middle East. Human and camel genetic sequence data demonstrate a close link between the virus found in camels and that found in people.

As a general precaution, anyone visiting farms, markets, barns or other places where animals are present, should practice general hygienic measures, including regular hand washing before and after touching animals, and avoiding contact with sick animals.

The consumption of raw or undercooked animal products, including milk and meat, carries a high risk of infection from a variety of organisms that might cause disease in humans.