Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS)

Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) is a viral respiratory disease caused by a coronavirus, known as MERS-CoV. It was first identified in Saudi Arabia in 2012 and has since been reported in several countries, including the Middle East, Africa, Asia, Europe, and North America.

What is MERS?

MERS is a zoonotic virus, meaning it can be transmitted between animals and humans. The exact origin of the virus is still unknown, but it is believed to have originated from bats and was transmitted to camels, which then infected humans. MERS-CoV is a member of the coronavirus family, which also includes the viruses that cause the common cold and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS).

Symptoms of MERS

The symptoms of MERS can range from mild to severe and may include:

• Fever
• Cough
• Shortness of breath
• Chills
• Muscle pain
• Headache
• Sore throat
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Abdominal pain

In severe cases, MERS can cause:

• Pneumonia
• Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS)
• Kidney failure
• Sepsis
• Septic shock

Treatments for MERS

There is no specific treatment for MERS, but symptoms can be managed with supportive care, such as:

• Oxygen therapy to help with breathing
• Fluid replacement to prevent dehydration
• Medication to reduce fever and relieve pain
• Antiviral medication, such as ribavirin, may be used in some cases
• Supportive care for respiratory and cardiac problems

In severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary to provide:

• Intensive care unit (ICU) admission
• Mechanical ventilation to support breathing
• Cardiovascular support
• Renal replacement therapy for kidney failure

Prevention and Control Measures

To prevent the spread of MERS, the following measures can be taken:

• Frequent hand washing with soap and water
• Avoiding close contact with people who are sick
• Avoiding touching eyes, nose, and mouth
• Wearing masks in crowded areas or when caring for someone who is sick
• Practicing good hygiene when handling animals, especially camels
• Avoiding consuming raw or undercooked camel products

Outbreak Response and Control

In the event of a MERS outbreak, public health authorities may implement control measures, such as:

• Contact tracing to identify people who have been in close contact with someone who is sick
• Screening for symptoms at airports and other entry points
• Isolation and quarantine of people who are sick or have been exposed to the virus
• Closure of public gatherings and events
• Enhanced infection control measures in healthcare settings