The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) has issued a new All Facilities Letter (AFL) updating information on the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV). The letter replaces the previous alert and provides updated guidance on the incubation period, surveillance, patient evaluation, infection control, and laboratory precautions. Healthcare facilities are encouraged to ensure their infection control policies align with the CDC's MERS-CoV guidance, review procedures for isolation and infection practices, and monitor the situation via the CDC's MERS website. The AFL also outlines criteria for evaluating patients for MERS-CoV infection, infection control guidance, and laboratory biosafety. Healthcare facilities must notify their local health department if a patient is suspected of MERS-CoV infection.

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