English
International SOS advises clients after rise in MERS CoV cases
Dubai
International SOS is working with client organisations which may be concerned about the recent rise in cases of MERS-CoV.
Over the last two weeks 5% of the calls received by the International SOS Assistance Centre in Dubai have been related to MERS. Many of these calls have been requests for specific information relating to the best precautions against contracting the virus.
Dr. Salwan Ibrahim, Medical Director Medical Services for the Middle East said:
“Alongside the surge in MERS-CoV cases that occurred in April 2014, we can see that organisations are beginning to take the necessary precautions to fulfil their duty of care to their employees living in and travelling to the region.
Although there is no indication from the authorities that MERS Co-V can be spread easily from human to human, clients are being proactive in working with International SOS to review their outbreak business continuity and pandemic plans.”
Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV), previously known as “novel coronavirus”, was first identified in humans in 2012. It is from the same family of viruses as SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome), the coronavirus family. Most cases have originated from the Middle East and the virus has been linked to camels. There is no specific treatment and no vaccine available.
Dr Salwan continued:
“We are tracking developments on a daily basis and use the latest technology to monitor the number of employees operating in the region. This enables us to provide relevant information to those who need it most”.
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Notes to Editors
About the International SOS Group of Companies The International SOS Group of Companies is in the business of saving lives, protecting your global workforce from health and security threats. Wherever you are, we deliver customised health, security risk management and wellbeing solutions to fuel your growth and productivity. In the event of extreme weather, an epidemic or a security incident, we provide an immediate response providing peace of mind. Our innovative technology and medical and security expertise focus on prevention, offering real-time, actionable insights and on-the-ground quality delivery. We help protect your people, your organisation's reputation, as well as support your compliance reporting needs. By partnering with us, organisations can fulfil their Duty of Care responsibilities, while empowering business resilience, continuity and sustainability. Founded in 1985, the International SOS Group, headquartered in London & Singapore, is trusted by 12,000 organisations, including the majority of the Fortune 500, as well as mid-size enterprises, governments, educational institutions and NGOs. 12,000 multicultural medical, security and logistics experts stand with you to provide support & assistance from over 1,000 locations in 90 countries, 24/7, 365 days.
To protect your workforce, we are at your fingertips: www.internationalsos.com
