Stop Drinking Camel Urine, World Health Organization Says

WE KNOW IT'S TEMPTING.

After all, who hasn't gotten the urge to sip a glass of chilled camel urine every now and then?

But, according to the World Health Organization, it could be deadly.

You see, there's a bit of a MERS situation. MERS — officially called Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus — leads to fevers, breathing problems, pneumonia, kidney failure and other deadly complications.

According to a news release, about 64 cases of the disease have been documented in South Korea, including five deaths.

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READ: 

MERS Virus That Threatens Humans Also Found in Camels ]

And, as you might have guessed, it is passed by camels. 

As a precaution, WHO is urging people to "avoid drinking raw camel milk or camel urine."

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Camels Confirmed as Source of Human MERS Infection ]

As disgusting as this sounds, some people in Muslim countries believe drinking camel urine will cure ailments.

While the outbreak persists, WHO is advising people to follow basic common sense when it comes to hygiene. And, as a general rule, stay away from camels.

"People should avoid close contact with animals, particularly camels, when visiting farms, markets, or barn areas where the virus is known to be potentially circulating," WHO advises. "General hygiene measures, such as regular hand washing before and after touching animals and avoiding contact with sick animals, should be adhered to."

Lauren Boyer, Social Media Editor

In Muslim countries, some believe camel urine has healing properties.

Tags: public health