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Second Indonesian found with MERS in Saudi Arabia
AnIndonesian citizen in Saudi Arabia has been diagnosed with Middle East respiratorysyndrome (MERS) Coronavirus
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An Indonesian citizen in Saudi Arabia has been diagnosed with Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) Coronavirus.
According to a press release from the Indonesia Consulate General in Jeddah, Jumallang Kaneng Lejja, 84, had arrived in Saudi Arabia to go on umrah (minor haj pilgrimage) on April 15, and was scheduled to return to Indonesia on April 25, as reported by tribunnews.com.
Jumallang, from Makassar, South Sulawesi, was admitted into the King Fahd Specialist Hospital on April 28 complaining of chest pains.
On April 29, the Health Ministry reported that another Indonesian ' NA, 61 ' had died of MERS after being treated for seven days at King Saud Hospital in Jeddah, Saud Arabia.
"The patient [Jumallang] tested positive for the MERS virus and is currently undergoing treatment in an isolation room at the King Fahd hospital in Jeddah," Syarif Shahabudin of the Indonesia Consulate said.
MERS symptoms are similar to flu, such as fever and respiratory problems.
Syarif said that the doctors caring for Jumallang said that his condition was showing good progress.
He added that Jumallang's companion, who is currently waiting in Jeddah, would also be examined for the MERS virus even though he seemed to be in good health.
"The consulate will continue to monitor this situation closely and coordinate with hospitals and other relevant parties," Syarif said.
Since its first appearance in 2012, the MERS virus has infected around 463 people and killed 126 of them.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has yet to impose a travel restriction on those wishing to travel to the Middle East. However, the Saudi Arabia authorities has issued warnings for those who would be vulnerable to the virus, such as the elderly, children, pregnant women and those suffering from chronic diseases. (fss/dic)
