Critical care medicine for emerging Middle East respiratory syndrome: Which point to be considered?

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Critical Care Medicine
• Public Health

Background:

• Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) is an emerging infectious disease caused by a novel coronavirus.
• The virus has demonstrated potential for global spread, with cases reported outside the Middle East, including in the USA and Korea.
• MERS can lead to severe respiratory illness, necessitating significant medical attention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the critical importance of intensive care management for patients diagnosed with MERS.
• To emphasize the need for discussion and planning regarding critical care strategies for MERS.
• To address the growing public health concern posed by this emerging respiratory infection.

Main Methods:

• This discussion focuses on the clinical presentation and critical care needs of MERS patients.
• Literature review and clinical case analysis inform the understanding of MERS severity.
• Expert opinion and consensus on critical care interventions are synthesized.

Main Results:

• Most MERS patients develop severe respiratory symptoms requiring intensive care.
• Effective critical care management is crucial for patient outcomes.
• The global spread necessitates preparedness in critical care facilities worldwide.

Conclusions:

• Critical care is a vital component in managing Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS).
• The management of MERS patients requires specialized critical care interventions.
• Ongoing vigilance and preparedness are essential to address the public health threat of MERS.