Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) is a viral respiratory illness caused by a coronavirus (MERS‑CoV). The majority of global MERS cases have been reported in Saudi Arabia.
Transmission
MERS is primarily transmitted through direct or indirect contact with infected dromedary camels or camel products. Limited human‑to‑human transmission may occur, mainly in healthcare settings.
Symptoms
Symptoms include fever, cough and shortness of breath. Gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhoea may occur. Older persons and individuals with chronic medical conditions or weakened immune systems are at increased risk of severe disease.
Travel Advice
Travelers, including those undertaking Hajj or Umrah, are advised to avoid contact with camels and camel products, including raw or undercooked meat and unpasteurized milk, and to practice good hand and respiratory hygiene.
There is currently no vaccine or specific treatment for MERS.