MANILA, Philippines – The deadly Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) Coronavirus has killed two more Filipinos in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said Thursday, May 22.

One of them died on May 12, and the other on May 18, DFA spokesman Charles Jose said in a text message.

This brings to 5 the total number of Filipinos killed by the MERS Coronavirus, Jose added.

Data from the World Health Organization, as of May 16, show at least 181 people died due to the MERS Coronavirus. Based on reports reaching the WHO, the virus has infected at least 614 people.

One can contract MERS Coronavirus, a contagious respiratory disease, through close contact with an infected person. Its symptoms include fever, coughs, shortness of breath, and other breathing difficulties. (READ: FAST FACTS: The MERS Coronavirus)

The Philippine government has issued precautionary measures for overseas Filipino workers who run the risk of contracting the MERS Coronavirus. (READ: MERS alert: 11 things OFWs should do) – Rappler.com