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Published on: January 26, 2019
Recent advances in vaccines and diagnostics against Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus
Abstract:
Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) is an RNA virus that causes severe respiratory disease. Since it was identified in 2012, approximately 2500 MERS cases with high mortality have been confirmed in 27 countries. Although most cases have occurred in the Middle East, an outbreak in South Korea in 2015 showed that MERS could be a global threat via human-to-human transmission. There is no licensed vaccine against MERS. Thus, early detection is the best way to limit the spread of this fatal disease. In this review, we focus on transmission, the infection process, and scientific efforts in vaccine development and diagnostics for MERS-CoV. Keywords: Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus; epidemiology; virology; vaccine; diagnostics.
Insights
Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) poses a global threat due to its high mortality and human-to-human transmission. Early detection and vaccine development are crucial for controlling this severe respiratory illness.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV), identified in 2012, causes severe respiratory disease with high mortality.
- Over 2500 cases confirmed in 27 countries, with outbreaks like South Korea's 2015 event highlighting global transmission risks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the transmission dynamics and infection process of MERS-CoV.
- To summarize current scientific endeavors in developing vaccines and diagnostic tools for MERS-CoV.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on MERS-CoV epidemiology and virology.
- Analysis of scientific publications on vaccine development and diagnostic strategies.
Main Results:
- MERS-CoV exhibits significant mortality and potential for global spread through human-to-human transmission.
- No licensed vaccine currently exists, underscoring the need for effective countermeasures.
Conclusions:
- Early detection is paramount for limiting the spread of MERS-CoV.
- Continued research into MERS-CoV transmission, infection, vaccines, and diagnostics is essential.
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