MERS-CoV is a coronavirus that was first reported in Saudi Arabia in 2012 and has a 30% mortality rate. It causes severe acute respiratory illness with symptoms like fever, cough and shortness of breath. While it has primarily affected countries on the Arabian Peninsula, there have also been some travel-associated cases in other countries. At risk groups include those with underlying medical conditions. Prevention strategies focus on handwashing and disinfecting surfaces as there is currently no vaccine or antiviral treatment available.

1. MERS‐CoV
Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS‐CoV). First reported in Saudi Arabia in September
2012. 30% mortality rate. No vaccine, no antiviral treatment. Cases have affected 2‐94 years old.
Incubation period 2‐14 days.
Affected Countries
Arabian Peninsula Affected Countries
 Saudi Arabia (511 cases to date; 157 RIP)
 United Arab Emirates (UAE)
 Qatar
 Oman
 Jordan
 Kuwait
 Yemen
 Lebanon
Countries with Travel‐associated Cases
 United Kingdom (UK)
 France
 Tunisia
 Italy
 Malaysia
 Turkey
 Greece
 Egypt
 United States of America (USA)
 Netherlands
Signs & Symptoms
 severe acute respiratory illness
 fever
 cough
 shortness of breath
 +/‐ diarrhea
 +/‐ nausea/vomiting.
Some infected people have mild symptoms (such as cold‐like symptoms) or no symptoms at all.
Comorbidities more likely to become infected with MERS, or have a severe case (including diabetes;
cancer; and chronic lung, heart, renal disease, immunocompromised)
Prevention
 Wash your hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds, and help young children do the
same. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol‐based hand sanitizer.
 Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
 Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces.
 Use of gloves, gowns and fit‐tested, seal‐checked N95 respirators and eye protection by health
workers when caring for the patient.