Though no cases of the Zika virus have been reported in Qatar, hospitals and health facilities across the country have been told to keep a closer eye out for patients showing signs of infection. The virus, which is spread through mosquitoes, can cause fever, rash and joint pain.

Qatar Airways is disinfecting planes that have flown to affected countries and prospective blood donors are facing additional screening, health officials told a seminar at Qatar University yesterday. Qatar previously warned residents traveling to South America to take extra precautions and publicized its health hotlines (6674-0948 and 6674-0951) for residents to report suspected cases.