The U.S. and the United Kingdom reported the first cases of the camel-borne Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) virus on their respective territories over the last few days, and aim to clamp down before it spreads and possibly kills. There have been 300-400 reported cases thus far, with 100 deaths.

America confirmed that the first reported case within its borders of the newly emerging Middle East Respiratory Syndrome, or MERS, had been detected in the state of Indiana, where an American had been hospitalized after returning to the U.S. a week ago. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said America’s first case of the virus involved a U.S. citizen who worked as a health care worker in Saudi Arabia.

With the epicenter of the MERS outbreak seemingly in Saudi Arabia, regional governments have started issuing travel warnings for pilgrims wishing to embark on a haj to Saudi’s holy cities. Egypt and the Palestinian Authority are among those to have made the calls.

The Palestinian Authority has advised those planning to travel to Saudi Arabia for the Haj pilgrimage in 2014 to postpone their trip due to the presence of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome in the country. Asaad Ramlawi, director-general of the primary healthcare department, said Friday that especially children under 12, pregnant woman, people over 65, and people with chronic diseases should avoid traveling to Saudi Arabia this year.

Israel’s Health Ministry says so far the virus has not been detected in the country.  However, officials will be on the alert towards October when millions of Muslims, including Israelis will make their way to Mecca and Medina for the main haj season.

By TheTower.org Staff