Risk of New Virus- Can Stop Fifa World cup 2022
One of the biggest events in the world after the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2022 FIFA World Cup will attract around 1.2 million spectators to Qatar from all over the world. Now, experts are warning that football fans in Qatar could be at risk of “camel flu“.
WHO-backed experts have warned that the 2022 FIFA World Cup could attract Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS), commonly known as camel flu, which could be deadlier than COVID-19. The disease was first identified in 2012 in Saudi Arabia.
Fever, cough and shortness of breath are common symptoms of MERS. Although pneumonia is common, patients with MERS do not always get the disease. Diarrhea and other gastrointestinal symptoms have also been seen in patients with MERS. The death rate of the disease is 35%
Since the camel flu virus is zoonotic, it can spread between humans and animals. According to studies, human infection can occur through contact with an infected person, either directly or indirectly. Travelers traveling to Qatar for the 2022 FIFA World Cup have also been warned not to touch camels, which are believed to be the source of the deadly infection. Qatar tour companies continue to advertise camel rides and safaris.
Researchers have found that large crowds at the 2022 FIFA World Cup inevitably pose potential infectious disease risks for players, fans, the local population and the teams’ home countries. WHO does not recommend any trade, travel, or entry screening measures involving MERS-CoV. MERS was recently designated by the WHO as one of the viruses with the potential to initiate a future pandemic.
While Qatar has prepared its health system for such a situation, the study highlights the importance of continued observation and research into the spread of the disease. Visitors to the event must follow guidelines for safe consumption of food and drink and keep vaccinations up to date to reduce risks.
