Eight key facts you need to know about the MERS virus!

Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) is a viral respiratory illness and was first reported in 2012 in Saudi Arabia.

Zee Media Bureau/Salome Phelamei

- Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) is a viral respiratory illness and was first reported in 2012 in Saudi Arabia.

- As of June 2015, MERS-CoV cases have been reported in over 20 countries, including Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, Jordan, Qatar, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Turkey, Oman, Algeria, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Austria, the United Kingdom, the United States, China and South Korea.

- It is caused by a coronavirus, the same family of viruses that causes the common cold, called MERS-CoV.

- Symptoms of MERS virus infection include fever, cough, shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Pneumonia is common, and sometimes it may cause injury to organs, such as the kidneys.

- The MERS virus infection can spread from person to person through respiratory secretions. It may also be transmitted from camels to humans.

- Older adult or people with a weakened immune system or suffering from a chronic disease are at greater risk of MERS virus.

- Currently, there is no vaccine to prevent MERS-CoV. Treatment is based upon the patient's medical condition that includes rest, fluids, pain relievers and oxygen therapy in severe cases.

- One can reduce the chances of getting MERS-CoV by adopting good and hygienic health practices such as-

  • Washing hands frequently with soap and water.
  • Avoiding close contact with sick people.
  • Avoiding touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Covering nose and mouth using a tissue while sneezing and coughing.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), a MERS outbreak in South Korea has claimed at least two lives and has infected 30 people so far, causing widespread fear among the public.

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