Illinois Man With MERS Unable To Spread Virus

An Illinois man who showed signs of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) has tested negative a second time for the ability to spread the virus.

The unidentified man is believed to be the first U.S. citizen infected with the virus while in the United States.

Illinois Department of Public Health Director, Dr. LaMar Hasbrouck said that even though the Illinois man was infected, he poses little risk to others.

“If he sneezes or coughs, the virus is not in his nose or mouth and therefore cannot be spread to others,” Hasbrouck said.

The Illinois resident had face-to-face contact with an Indiana man, who had just returned from Saudi Arabia.

Health officials continue to monitor anyone who has come into potential contact with the virus, and ways that it can be transmitted.