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Novel Coronavirus Infection in Saudi Arabia

07 May 2013

A cluster of 10 novel coronavirus infections (nCOV) has been reported in Alhasa in the Eastern Province of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

During investigation of the outbreak a further 3 cases have been identified: 2 females aged 62 and 58 years and one male aged 71 years. All 3 have comorbidities and are in a critical but stable condition.

At present there is no obvious community transmission and transmission appears to be linked to one healthcare facility.

Advice for Travellers

The risk associated with novel coronavirus to the general UK population remains extremely low and the risk to travellers to the Arabian Peninsula and surrounding countries remains very low.

No travel restrictions are in place, however, travellers who develop severe respiratory symptoms, such as shortness of breath, within ten days of returning from these countries should seek medical advice and mention which countries they have visited.