MERS
MERS (Middle East Respiratory Syndrome)
MERS (Middle East Respiratory Syndrome), pronounced as /mɜːrz/, is a viral respiratory illness that was first reported in Saudi Arabia in 2012. The etymology of the term is derived from the region where it was first identified (Middle East) and the nature of the disease (Respiratory Syndrome).
Definition
MERS is a contagious and sometimes fatal respiratory illness caused by the MERS-CoV (Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus). It is characterized by severe acute respiratory illness with symptoms of fever, cough, and shortness of breath.
Symptoms
The symptoms of MERS can range from mild to severe. They usually include fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Some people also have gastrointestinal symptoms including diarrhea and nausea/vomiting. For many people with MERS, more severe complications can follow, such as pneumonia and kidney failure.
Transmission
MERS is primarily transmitted from animals to humans, but it can also spread from human to human. The exact animal reservoirs of MERS-CoV aren't fully known, but camels are a major reservoir host for the virus and an animal source of MERS infection in humans.
Prevention and Treatment
There is currently no specific treatment for MERS. Medical care is supportive and to help relieve symptoms. Prevention measures include standard infection prevention practices, such as frequent hand washing, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and taking precautions when visiting farm or market environments in regions where MERS-CoV is known to be potentially circulating.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on MERS
- Wikipedia's article - MERS
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