Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS)

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

Cause and Transmission

MERS-CoV is a zoonotic virus, meaning it can be transmitted between animals and humans. The exact origin of the virus is unknown, but camels are believed to be the primary animal reservoir. Humans can become infected through direct or indirect contact with infected camels, such as through touching or consuming contaminated products like camel milk or urine.

Human-to-human transmission of MERS-CoV can occur through close contact with an infected person, such as through respiratory droplets, contact with contaminated surfaces, or healthcare-associated transmission. However, the virus does not seem to spread easily between people, and most cases have been linked to close contact with an infected individual.

Symptoms

The symptoms of MERS can range from mild to severe and 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), and multi-organ failure, which can be life-threatening.

Risk Factors

Certain individuals are at higher risk of developing severe illness from MERS, including:

• Older adults
• Young children
• Pregnant women
• People with underlying medical conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, or chronic lung disease
• Immunocompromised individuals, such as those with HIV/AIDS or taking immunosuppressive medications

Diagnosis

MERS is diagnosed through laboratory tests, including:

• Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to detect the presence of MERS-CoV genetic material
• Serology tests to detect antibodies against MERS-CoV
• Imaging studies, such as chest X-rays or computed tomography (CT) scans, to evaluate lung involvement

Treatment and Prevention

There is no specific treatment for MERS, but supportive care can help alleviate symptoms and improve outcomes. This may include:

• Oxygen therapy
• Fluid replacement
• Antiviral medications, such as ribavirin or lopinavir/ritonavir
• Antibiotics to treat secondary bacterial infections

To prevent MERS, the following measures can be taken:

• Avoid close contact with camels and other animals that may be infected
• Practice good hygiene, such as washing hands frequently and thoroughly
• Avoid touching eyes, nose, and mouth
• Wear personal protective equipment (PPE), such as masks and gloves, when interacting with potentially infected individuals or animals
• Follow proper infection control procedures in healthcare settings

Outbreaks and Epidemiology

MERS outbreaks have occurred in several countries, with the majority of cases reported in Saudi Arabia. The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported a total of 2,442 cases of MERS, including 858 deaths, as of 2020.

The epidemiology of MERS is complex and influenced by various factors, including animal reservoirs, human behavior, and environmental conditions. Further research is needed to understand the dynamics of MERS transmission and to develop effective prevention and control strategies.