Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) is an acute viral disease caused by the MERS-CoV coronavirus. The disease is characterized by severe respiratory symptoms, beginning with high fever, cough, and shortness of breath, and can lead to pneumonia and acute respiratory failure. The infection was first reported in 2012 in Saudi Arabia and has since attracted the attention of both scientists and health professionals due to its high fatality rate and potential for widespread epidemics. MERS-CoV is transmitted to humans, probably from camels, which has established an indoor mechanism of transmission. The disease has localized outbreaks and, despite its severity, has not become widespread worldwide, making it an important topic of study.
History of the disease and interesting historical facts
Middle East respiratory syndrome was first identified in 2012 in a patient in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Since then, numerous cases have been reported across the Middle East and beyond. Interestingly, the MERS-CoV virus is highly similar to the coronavirus that causes severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS-CoV), indicating that it is zoonotic. Transmission from animals to humans is becoming the main source of cases. Dromedaries (Arabian camels) have been found to serve as a reservoir for the virus. Studies have shown that people who work with camels or have close contact with them are at increased risk of infection.
Epidemiology
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 2,500 cases of MERS have been reported since its discovery, with a high mortality rate of up to 34%. Epidemiologists note that the number of confirmed cases largely depends on monitoring efforts and improved diagnostics in different countries. For example, in 2015, Korea experienced a significant outbreak of the disease, leading to more than 186 confirmed cases. However, unlike the COVID-19 or SARS pandemics, the global spread of MERS remains limited, which may be explained by its zoonotic nature and the relative inefficiency of transmission between people.
Genetic predisposition to this disease
Because MERS is a viral disease, genetic predisposition has limited influence on its development. However, a person’s immune system may play a role in susceptibility to the virus. Some studies have suggested that certain genes (such as those associated with inflammation) may interact with disease severity. Mutated forms of some of these genes may increase the risk of developing severe infection. Research is ongoing, and more data are needed to determine the full impact of genetic factors on the course of MERS.
Risk factors for the development of this disease
Factors that contribute to the development of MERS include:
- Contact with infected animals, especially camels;
- Travel to areas with high incidence of disease;
- The presence of chronic diseases such as lung disease, diabetes or immunodeficiency;
- Work in healthcare settings or with high levels of direct patient contact.
It is important to note that risk factors may vary by region, and different populations may have different susceptibility to the disease.
Diagnosis of this disease
The main symptoms of MERS include:
- High temperature, chills;
- Cough and shortness of breath;
- Muscle pain, headache;
- Difficulty breathing, which most often indicates pneumonia.
Laboratory tests are used to diagnose MERS-CoV, including molecular tests for the presence of viral RNA in samples of saliva, blood, or nasopharyngeal swabs. Radiological tests, such as chest X-ray, may demonstrate pneumonia. Differential diagnosis is important to exclude other respiratory diseases, such as influenza or COVID-19.
Treatment
Treatment for MERS is mainly supportive and symptomatic, as no specific antiviral therapy has been developed to date. The main approaches to therapy include:
- Hospitalization in severe cases;
- Providing oxygen for shortness of breath;
- Use of antiviral drugs such as ribavirin, although their effectiveness has not been fully proven;
- Supportive therapy to control symptoms and complications.
Given the high mortality rate, treatment protocols require strict adherence to WHO recommendations.
List of medications used to treat this disease
The main drugs studied in the context of MERS treatment are:
- Ribavirin;
- Interferons;
- Corticosteroids (to reduce inflammation);
- Supportive drugs (analgesics, fluids).
Therapy requires an individual approach and may vary depending on the patient's condition.
Disease monitoring
Monitoring MERS cases involves contact tracing, regular testing, and involvement of local health services. The prognosis for MERS depends on the patient's health status at the time of the call and the presence of underlying medical conditions. Complications may include acute respiratory distress syndrome and various infectious complications.
Age-related features of the disease
MERS can have varying degrees of severity in different age groups. Older people and those with chronic medical conditions are at higher risk of serious complications. Case studies show that mortality is significantly higher among patients over 60 years of age than in younger people.
Questions and Answers
- What is MERS? MERS is a highly lethal respiratory disease caused by a coronavirus that is transmitted zoonotically.
- How is MERS transmitted? The MERS-CoV virus is transmitted through contact with infected camels or from person to person in close contact.
- What is the fatality rate of MERS? The fatality rate of MERS is approximately 34%, but it can vary depending on the patient's health and other factors.
- How is MERS diagnosed? Diagnosis is based on clinical symptoms, laboratory tests for the virus and radiological studies.
- Is there a specific treatment for MERS? Specific treatment has not been developed, but supportive and symptomatic therapies are used.
