Middle East respiratory syndrome-related coronavirus

Middle East Respiratory Syndrome-related Coronavirus (MERS-CoV)

Middle East Respiratory Syndrome-related Coronavirus (MERS-CoV) is a viral respiratory infection caused by a coronavirus, specifically identified as part of the coronavirus family that includes the SARS-CoV responsible for severe acute respiratory syndrome. First reported in Saudi Arabia in 2012, MERS-CoV has since been identified in multiple countries, primarily in the Arabian Peninsula, leading to sporadic outbreaks with significant mortality rates.

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Overview

MERS-CoV is a zoonotic virus, meaning it is transmitted from animals to humans. Camels are considered a major reservoir host for MERS-CoV and an animal source of infection in humans. However, the exact mechanisms of animal-to-human or human-to-human transmission are not fully understood. Human-to-human transmission has been reported among close contacts and healthcare settings, emphasizing the need for stringent infection control measures.

Electron microscopy image of MERS-CoV.

Symptoms

MERS-CoV infection can range from mild or asymptomatic to severe acute respiratory disease and death. Common symptoms include:

• Fever, cough, and shortness of breath.
• Pneumonia.
• Gastrointestinal symptoms, such as diarrhea.
• Severe cases can lead to respiratory failure, kidney failure, septic shock, and death.

Transmission

Transmission of MERS-CoV to humans is believed to occur through direct or indirect contact with infected dromedary camels. Human-to-human transmission is less common but can occur, particularly in healthcare environments without proper infection control practices.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of MERS-CoV infection is performed through laboratory tests, including:

• Real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) tests to detect viral RNA.
• Serological tests to detect antibodies indicating past infection.

Treatment

There is no specific antiviral treatment recommended for MERS-CoV infection. Supportive medical care to relieve symptoms is the mainstay of treatment, with critical care for severe cases.

Prevention and Control

Preventive measures focus on avoiding contact with camels in endemic areas and practicing good hygiene, such as regular handwashing. In healthcare settings, infection control practices are crucial to prevent virus transmission, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE).

Epidemiology

Since its discovery, MERS-CoV has caused multiple outbreaks, with a notable outbreak in South Korea in 2015 linked to a traveler from the Arabian Peninsula. The World Health Organization (WHO) continues to monitor the situation and provide updates on new cases and outbreaks.

External Links

• World Health Organization (WHO): MERS-CoV
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): MERS

Middle East respiratory syndrome-related coronavirus Resources
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