Fans attending the FIFA World Cup 2022 should be advised that Qatar is experiencing an outbreak of MERS-CoV. Although most cases have been reported in people who have recently traveled to eastern parts of the Arabian Peninsula, there have also been cases in people who are residents of Qatar and Saudi Arabia.
The virus can be spread through close contact with infected people or animals (particularly camels), indirect contact with respiratory secretions, and contamination of surfaces and objects with those fluids.
We advise travelers to avoid close contact with people who are ill, particularly those with symptoms of respiratory illnesses such as coughing or difficulty breathing.
Travelers should be aware that some countries have MERS-CoV risk factors in common with Qatar; however, the risk factors and transmission methods vary by country. The most effective way to prevent MERS-CoV infection is frequent hand washing with soap and warm water. In addition, we advise travelers to avoid close contact with camels.
Travelers should be aware that some countries have MERS-CoV risk factors in common with Qatar; however, the risk factors and transmission methods vary by country.