In a major step toward preventing the spread of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) among pilgrims, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has banned the slaughter of camels during this year's hajj pilgrimage.
Camels will not be allowed to enter the holy sites of Mecca and Medina, a statement issued by the Permanent Committee for Fatwa stated.
However, the release added that pilgrims who want to sacrifice camels during Haj can do so through organizations such as Islamic Development Bank and Al-Rajhi Banks since such schemes do not have a direct impact on pilgrims.
About 90% of camels in the Gulf region are carriers of MERS-CoV and the virus can be transmitted over a one-meter distance, according to Abdullah Asiri, undersecretary for preventative health at the Saudi Ministry of Health (MoH).
Asiri said that 50% of camels in the Al-Ahsa region carry the virus. “A person who comes into contact with infected camels can transmit the virus to family members without showing symptoms of the disease.”
MERS is considered a deadlier but less infectious cousin of the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) virus that appeared in Asia in 2003 and killed hundreds of people, mostly in China.
MERS symptoms can include fever, coughing and shortness of breath.