6 Pinoys in Abu Dhabi negative for MERS

MANILA, Philippines - Six Filipino workers in Abu Dhabi who were previously diagnosed with Middle East Respiratory Syndrome-coronavirus (MERS-CoV) were found to be negative for the virus after two consecutive tests, Labor Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz said yesterday.

“They had been released from hospital,” Baldoz said, citing a report from labor attaché to Abu Dhabi Angel Borja.

It was not known if the six overseas workers are among the 12 Filipinos earlier reported by the Department of Foreign Affairs who were being monitored for possible infection with MERS-CoV.

According to Baldoz, the Philippine Overseas Labor Offices (POLO) in Abu Dhabi and Dubai are working closely with the Philippine embassy and Filipino communities to raise awareness on MERS-CoV.

“Our POLOs are one with the Philippine embassy in Abu Dhabi in making representation with the host country’s local health authorities, not only in securing correct and relevant information, but also in protecting Filipinos in the medical and allied professions,” she said.

Labor Attaché to Qatar Leopoldo de Jesus reported to Baldoz that the Supreme Council of Health (SCH) of Qatar has intensified its monitoring of possible MERS-CoV cases.