MERS coronavirus

Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV) is a viral respiratory infection caused by the novel coronavirus that was first identified in Saudi Arabia in 2012. MERS-CoV is a member of the coronavirus family that includes the common cold and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS). The virus is capable of causing severe respiratory illness, including fever, cough, and shortness of breath, with a high mortality rate.

Etiology

MERS-CoV is a Betacoronavirus that is zoonotic in origin, meaning it is transmitted from animals to humans. It is believed that the virus originated in bats and was transmitted to camels at some point in the distant past. Humans are infected through direct or indirect contact with infected dromedary camels, which are considered the primary animal host and source of MERS-CoV transmission to humans.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

The symptoms of MERS-CoV infection range from mild to severe and include fever, cough, shortness of breath, and in severe cases, pneumonia and kidney failure. The diagnosis of MERS-CoV infection is confirmed through laboratory tests, including molecular techniques such as real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (rRT-PCR) for the detection of viral RNA.

Transmission

Human-to-human transmission of MERS-CoV has been documented, but it is not easily transmitted unless there is close contact, such as providing unprotected care to an infected patient. The majority of human cases have been attributed to nosocomial infections, where the virus spreads in healthcare settings.

Prevention and Treatment

There is currently no specific vaccine or antiviral treatment for MERS-CoV. Prevention strategies focus on general hygiene measures, such as regular hand washing with soap and water, and avoiding close contact with sick people. In healthcare settings, infection control measures are critical to prevent the spread of the virus. Treatment is supportive and based on the patient's clinical condition.

Epidemiology

Since its discovery in 2012, MERS-CoV has been reported in over 27 countries, with the majority of cases occurring in the Arabian Peninsula. The World Health Organization (WHO) continues to monitor the situation and provide updates on the spread of the virus.

See Also

• Coronavirus
• Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS)
• Zoonosis
• Epidemiology of viral diseases