Monitoring of new disease strengthened

Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) has caused more than 40 fatalities, mainly in Saudi Arabia.

The acting Director of Public Health, Dr Fran McGrath, says to date no cases have been reported in New Zealand, and this is a precautionary measure that improves the country’s ability to monitor and respond to the virus.

“The World Health Organization says there is no evidence of sustained human-to-human transmission and WHO does not advise travel restrictions or special border screening. But it does recommend countries strengthen their surveillance and preparedness for this new disease, “ Dr McGrath says.

Notification means the health sector is required to report any confirmed or suspected cases within New Zealand to the Medical Officer of Health at their local public health unit.

Dr McGrath says the unrelated H7N9 avian influenza virus is already notifiable as a type of non-seasonal influenza.

“With any suspected case of H7N9, and soon for MERS, a health professional such as a GP, hospital doctor or a laboratory is required to alert their local public health unit which will respond appropriately. The information is then included in the national surveillance system, EpiSurv, and to the Ministry of Health.”

MERS also becomes a quarantinable disease, meaning additional controls may apply at the border should someone with MERS be travelling to New Zealand.

Dr McGrath says New Zealanders will remember the country’s experience with pandemic in 2009 with the H1N1 influenza.

“This is a reminder that this could happen again and it might be an opportune time for people to check their own pandemic preparations at home and for their family.”

Information on being prepared for a pandemic is available on the Ministry website under the Emergency Management section .

Information regarding H7N9 avian influenza and MERS is regularly updated on the Ministry’s website. View the Avian influenza (bird flu) section and Novel coronavirus (MERS-CoV) section.

WHO updates on avian influenza and coronavirus including a weekly monitoring, risk assessment and FAQ are available on the World Health Organisation website Avian influenza section and Coronavirus infections section.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade also has advice for travellers on its Safe Travel website including information for those who may be considering travelling to Saudi Arabia for the forthcoming Hajj pilgrimage.

Note: The addition of MERS to the schedules of the Health Act 1956 will take effect once the Orders have been made and published in the Gazette. This is expected to occur within the next few weeks.

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