The number of the Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) coronavirus cases has dropped drastically in the Kingdom, with only one death being reported (Makkah, Saudi Arabia) and one infection (Dhuba) in the last seven days.

“This is the fifth consecutive week the Ministry of Health has observed a sharp decline in the number of MERS patients,” an official said, adding that people should still continue to take all precautionary measures against the disease. The ministry will also continue to take maximum precautions, the official said.

A total of 979 cases have been reported since June 2012, which included 428 deaths and 548 recoveries, while three are currently being treated in hospitals.