MERS (Middle East Respiratory Syndrome): A Comprehensive Overview and Treatment Guide
Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS), a severe respiratory illness, was first identified in Saudi Arabia in 2012. This zoonotic virus, which can pass from animals to humans and vice versa, has since been diagnosed in 25 countries, primarily in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia.
MERS primarily affects the lungs and airways and can cause symptoms such as cough, shortness of breath, fever, chills, cold-like symptoms, muscle aches, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. Symptoms generally appear about 5 to 6 days after a person is exposed to the virus, but they can start anywhere from 2 to 14 days after exposure.
Human-to-human transmission of MERS occurs in healthcare settings and households where someone else has the viral infection. Most original MERS infections are passed from dromedary camels to humans.
Approximately 35% of people diagnosed with MERS die, although many also have underlying conditions that weaken the immune system. There is no specific treatment for MERS, care is focused on easing symptoms such as IV fluids, pain medications, rest, oxygen, and in severe cases, ventilator or dialysis.
The impact of MERS on people's lives is significant, as previous research into MERS has allowed scientists to develop tests and treatments for COVID-19 more quickly than they otherwise would have been able to. Diagnosing MERS involves a series of tests, including complete blood count, chest X-ray, and PCR testing.
It is worth noting that only two confirmed cases of MERS have ever been diagnosed in the United States, both in 2014 in people who were from Saudi Arabia and visiting the United States. All diagnosed cases of MERS have been linked to the Arabian Peninsula, making it unlikely for people not traveling to the Middle East or in contact with someone who has traveled there recently to be exposed to MERS-CoV.
MERS shares some similarities with SARS, another severe type of coronavirus. However, MERS is caused by the MERS coronavirus (MERS-CoV) and COVID-19 is caused by SARS-CoV-2. To lower the risk of contracting MERS, one should wash hands frequently, cover mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing, avoid touching face with unwashed hands, avoid contact with sick people, clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces.
In conclusion, while MERS is a serious respiratory illness, the risk of contracting it is low for most people, especially those not traveling to the Middle East or in contact with someone who has traveled there recently. However, it is important to continue practicing good hygiene and following health guidelines to protect against all infectious diseases, including MERS.
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