The Agriculture Ministry has urged camel breeders to take precautionary measures to protect themselves against the coronavirus.

The warning comes after scientific studies proved the existence of the virus in the respiratory system of these animals.

The Health Ministry issued a press statement Sunday night urging residents not to come into contact with camels and to wear masks if dealing with camels is an absolute must, in addition to washing hands with soap after touching a camel or even wearing protective gloves.

The statement also advised people to wear a standardized uniform inside camel pens and to leave them at the location when leaving.

The statement called on residents to ensure boiling camel meat or milk before consuming them. Camel breeders must report immediately to the nearest agricultural branch or veterinarian in the event any of the camels show symptoms of illness.

Breeders can call 8002470000.

The Agriculture Ministry had drawn up a plan to fight communicable diseases in 2012 in cooperation with the UN Food and Agriculture Organization, as well as the Health Ministry.