VOICED : Meca en alerta por coronavirus

Saudi Arabia is preparing to host millions of Muslims for the pilgrimage to Mecca, a key Islamic practice. However, the MERS coronavirus poses a health threat, with most cases occurring in Saudi Arabia. Authorities have set up hospitals and advised vulnerable groups to avoid attending. Similar precautions were taken in past epidemics, but this time Saudi Arabia is the virus's origin.

What is the religious significance of the pilgrimage to Mecca for Muslims?

• It is a historical reenactment.

• It is a cultural festival.

• It is a political gathering.

• It is a mandatory religious duty.

What is the main health concern for pilgrims visiting Mecca this year?

• Ebola virus

• MERS coronavirus

• Zika virus

• Influenza outbreak

How many deaths have been attributed to the MERS virus worldwide since its emergence?

• 100 deaths

• 75 deaths

• 58 deaths

• 49 deaths

What precautionary advice did the Saudi government give to certain groups of people regarding the pilgrimage?

• To wear masks at all times

• To get vaccinated

• To travel in groups

• To avoid attending this year

In which years did similar health alerts occur to prevent the spread of epidemics during the pilgrimage?

• 2001 and 2005

• 2007 and 2012

• 2003 and 2009

• 2010 and 2015