RIYADH: As a preventive measure against the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV), elderly pilgrims and people with chronic ailments have been advised to postpone or reconsider their Haj visits until a later date in order to reduce their risk of contracting the deadly disease.

While answering a question through the “Haj Phone-In Service” of the Ministry of Health on Monday, Dr. Nisreen El-Sherbini, a consultant for infectious diseases and fevers, explained that the elderly and chronically ill are most susceptible to hosting the virus. She therefore noted that it would be wise for them to refrain from exposing themselves to the disease during the upcoming Haj period. She added that patients suffering from chronic diseases include those with diabetes, heart conditions, renal failures and patients with hypertension.

El-Sherbini also explained that coronavirus is transmitted through tiny droplets from the coughing and sneezing of an infected person. As a protective measure, she said, pilgrims should wear a mask that covers the nose and mouth in congested places, and also noted that they should follow the proper etiquette for sneezing and coughing by covering their mouth and nose with a tissue, before throwing it away immediately.

She explained that some common symptoms of the virus include high temperatures above 38 degrees, and complaints of a chest infection, a runny nose and breathing problems.