Information for travellers returning from the 2022 FIFA World Cup, Qatar

Anyone travelling from the Middle East, including returning to Australia from attending the 2022 FIFA World Cup, should be aware of Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS).

MERS is a rare but severe respiratory illness that may affect travellers to Middle Eastern countries. 

It is spread through close contact with camels carrying the virus or an infected person, or by consuming uncooked camel meat or unpasteurised camel milk.

Symptoms include:
• Fever
• Cough
• Breathing difficulties
• Diarrhoea.

There is currently no vaccine available. Reduce your risk of getting MERS by observing good hygiene practices, avoiding close contacts with camels and avoiding consuming uncooked meat or unpasteurised milk. 

More information, including symptoms and diagnosis is available on the Commonwealth Department of Health MERS webpage