Understanding Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) and Its Effects on the Lungs

Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Alla Bhagyaraj , Pulmonologists

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1. Causes 2. Find a Doctor 3. Diagnosis 4. Treatment 5. FAQs

Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) is a viral respiratory illness caused by the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV). First identified in Saudi Arabia in 2012, the virus primarily spreads from infected dromedary camels to humans and can also spread between people through close contact, particularly in healthcare settings. MERS ranges from mild respiratory illness to severe pneumonia and life-threatening complications. Early diagnosis, infection control measures, and supportive medical care are essential to improve outcomes and limit transmission.

What are the Symptoms of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS)?

Symptoms usually develop within 2 to 14 days after exposure and range from mild respiratory illness to severe disease.

Fever.
Cough.
Shortness of breath.
Chills and muscle aches.
Fatigue.
Diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting.
Pneumonia in severe cases.
Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) in critically ill patients.

What Causes Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS)?

MERS is caused by infection with the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV). The virus spreads from animals to humans and between people under certain circumstances.

Infection with MERS-CoV.
Close contact with infected individuals through respiratory droplets.
Exposure to contaminated surfaces followed by touching the face.
Direct contact with infected dromedary camels.
Consumption of raw camel milk or undercooked camel meat.
Travel to areas where MERS is circulating.

When Should You See a Doctor for Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS)?

Seek immediate medical care if you develop respiratory symptoms after recent travel to affected regions or after contact with someone who has MERS. Early evaluation helps reduce complications and limits disease transmission.

Persistent fever and cough.
Difficulty breathing or worsening shortness of breath.
Recent travel to regions with reported MERS cases.
Close contact with a confirmed MERS patient.
Exposure to dromedary camels or raw camel products.
High-risk individuals with new respiratory symptoms, including older adults and people with chronic medical conditions.

MERS is managed by infectious disease specialists, pulmonologists, critical care physicians, and other healthcare professionals depending on the severity of illness.

Prompt medical evaluation and isolation measures help reduce the risk of severe illness and transmission to others.

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How is Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) Diagnosed?

Diagnosis is based on symptoms, exposure history, and laboratory testing to confirm MERS-CoV infection.

Medical history, including travel and exposure assessment.
Physical examination.
Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) testing of respiratory samples.
Blood tests to evaluate overall health and organ function.
Chest X-ray or CT scan to assess pneumonia or other lung complications.
Additional laboratory investigations to monitor disease severity.

What are the Treatment Options for Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS)?

There is no specific antiviral treatment approved for MERS. Management focuses on supportive care and treatment of complications.

Supportive medical care.
Oxygen therapy for patients with breathing difficulty.
Mechanical ventilation for severe respiratory failure.
Intravenous fluids to maintain hydration and electrolyte balance.
Treatment of secondary bacterial infections when present.
Intensive care management for critically ill patients.
Investigational antiviral therapies or other treatments may be considered in clinical trial settings.

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What are the Complications of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS)?

Severe MERS infection can result in life-threatening complications, particularly in people with underlying medical conditions.

Severe pneumonia.
Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).
Respiratory failure.
Acute kidney injury.
Sepsis and septic shock.
Multi-organ failure.
Death in severe cases.

How Can Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) be Prevented?

Preventive measures focus on reducing exposure to the virus and limiting person-to-person transmission.

Wash hands frequently with soap and water.
Avoid close contact with people who have respiratory illnesses.
Avoid contact with sick camels and practice good hygiene after handling animals.
Avoid consuming raw camel milk or undercooked camel meat.
Wear appropriate personal protective equipment in healthcare settings.
Follow travel health advisories when visiting affected regions.

What are the Risk Factors for Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS)?

Certain factors increase the likelihood of acquiring MERS or developing severe disease.

Travel to areas where MERS is circulating.
Close contact with infected individuals.
Exposure to dromedary camels.
Healthcare workers caring for infected patients.
Older age.
Diabetes, chronic kidney disease, chronic lung disease, or weakened immune system.