We have all seen many versions and strains of Coronavirus, a large and diverse family of viruses that include several pathogens and cause illness in animals and humans. Middle East Respiratory Syndrome or MERS-CoV is a particular strain of coronavirus (formerly referred to as NCoV) that has not been actively identified in humans. MERS-CoV is a zoonotic virus, which implies that in the disease, a zoonotic virus enters the human population by direct and indirect contact. Though there has been very limited information on its transmission as well as its severity, primarily MERS affects people when a transmission between animals and people happens. The ailment causes fever, cough, and shortness of breath. In some patients, diarrhea, nausea, and other gastrointestinal symptoms may also be witnessed. 
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This viral respiratory illness was first reported in Saudi Arabia in the year 2012. Recently, in the month of July 2023, the world witnessed some cases of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome. The origin of the virus isnot fully understood but it is believed that this virus may have originated in bats and was further transmitted to dromedary camels. Dromedaries are a type of camel found in several countries like the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Iraq, Iran, Israel, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, Yemen, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Africa, and parts of South Asia. As per data, humans have gotten infected through direct or indirect contact with infected dromedary camels or through consumption of their products (such as camel’s milk). This camel variety is known to be a natural host and zoonotic source of MERS-CoV infection. However, the good news is that not all the above-mentioned countries have had cases of MERS. Since 2012, the total number of confirmed MERS-CoV cases reported is 2605 across the globe including 936 MERS-CoV-related deaths until July 2023.
Symptoms Of MERS
Ranging from asymptomatic or mild respiratory symptoms to severe acute respiratory distress, MERS-CoV infection can also cause death in some cases. The virus appears to cause more severe disease in older people who have a weakened immune system besides those with chronic diseases like renal disease, cancer, chronic lung disease, and diabetes. Some common symptoms of this problem are:
- Fever and chronic cough
- Shortness of breath
- Pneumonia
- Gastrointestinal symptoms
- Diarrhea
- Respiratory failure (in severe cases)
Does MERS Has A Vaccine?
There is no vaccine or specific treatment for Middle East Respiratory Syndrome and the vaccines and treatment are primarily supportive and based on the patient’s clinical condition, age, and co-morbidities. Prevention is the best way to ward off this illness.
A Word Of Advice From The WHO On MERS
Under the Health Act 1956, MERS is described as a notifiable and quarantinable disease. Therefore, based on the latest available information, WHO continues to monitor the epidemiological situation and emphasize the importance of strong measures to protect against its spread. Here are some safety measures that will prevent humans from the harmful effects of this contagious and deadly virus:
- Transiting through an international airport for less than 24 hours stay, remaining within the airport is not considered to be a risk factor for infection however, the Ministry of Health has some restrictions for travelers who wish to stay longer in the affected area and for the pilgrims travelling Hajj or Umrah
- As a general precaution, anyone visiting farms or other places where dromedaries live should maintain hygiene practices such as regular hand washing after touching animals besides avoiding touching eyes, nose, or mouth with hands, whenever there is contact with infected animals, specifically dromedary camels
- People must also consider wearing protective gowns and gloves while handling camels during this time
- Consuming raw or undercooked animal products, milk, and meat may carry a high risk of infection from various organisms and the virus may infect the concerned person. Moreover, cross-contamination with uncooked foods should also be avoided
- Any suspected or confirmed case should be immediately reported to the local health authorities
- Anyone who becomes unwell within 14 days of returning from the Middle East or with a history of being in a healthcare facility as a patient, worker, or visitor, he or she should inform the concerned healthcare people upon his or her return
- It is essential to mention your own recent travel to the Middle East and the health condition of any known contact who may be infected or has a chance of catching MERS due to travel or otherwise
