The Philippine Consulate General would like to inform the public that medical clearances are not required for returning OFWs from KSA and other Middle East countries.

Nevertheless, the Consulate would like to reiterate the advisory issued earlier by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Department of Health for Filipino Communities in the Middle East on MERS-CoV which is available in the Consulate's website, www.pcgjeddah.org.

In particular, our Kababayans are advised to avoid going out unnecessarily in order to minimize risk of being infected. "Travel spreads the virus - no travel, no transmission."

If you have been or may have been possibly exposed to MERS-CoV patients, undergo MERS-Cov testing, postpone any trip abroad and wait for the result to turn negative before travelling anywhere.

Visit your doctor, a hospital or health facility immediately if symptoms of MERS-CoV manifest itself, including persistent coughing. If you were in close contact with a confirmed MERS-CoV patient, comply with test results. (End)