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Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus Could be a Priority Pathogen to Cause Public Health Emergency:
Deepak Chandran1, Sandip Chakraborty2, Diljith Chandran3
1Department of Animal Husbandry, Government of Kerala, Kerala, India.
Abstract:
Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) is caused by a specific strain of the 6 types of human coronaviruses (HCoV). MERS-CoV has spread unchecked since it was first discovered in Saudi Arabia in 2012. The virus most likely spreads through nosocomial and zoonotic channels. Genetic analyses suggest that bats were the initial hosts and that the disease spread to camels. Person-to-person transmission occurs with varying frequency, being most prevalent in clinical settings and the least common among the general population and among close relatives. Due to the severity of the illness, high fatality rate, potential for epidemic spread, and lack of adequate medical countermeasures, the World Health Organization (WHO) continues to list MERS-CoV as a priority pathogen. While no specific antiviral medicines exist, a combination of antivirals has shown promise in recent clinical trials. Vaccines against MERS-CoV are critically needed and are currently being developed. Early diagnosis and implementing appropriate infection control measures are keys to preventing hospital-associated outbreaks. Preventive measures include avoiding raw or undercooked meats and other animal products, ensuring proper hand hygiene in healthcare settings and around dromedaries, educating the public and healthcare personnel about the disease, and adhering to other recommended practices. Countries with a high prevalence of MERS should adhere to regulations designed to limit the transmission of the virus. The recent spread of MERS-CoV highlights the importance of public awareness regarding the significance of reporting symptoms so that appropriate control measures can be adopted. The narrative review discusses the incidence of MERS, its clinical presentation, potential transmission routes, recent reports, preventative and control measures, and current therapeutic options.
Insights
Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) is a serious coronavirus (HCoV) infection. Public awareness and infection control are vital for preventing MERS-CoV spread, as vaccines and specific treatments are still under development.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) is caused by a specific human coronavirus (HCoV) strain, MERS-CoV, first identified in Saudi Arabia in 2012.
- The virus poses a significant public health threat due to its severity, high fatality rate, and potential for epidemic spread, leading the WHO to classify it as a priority pathogen.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive overview of MERS, including its incidence, clinical presentation, and transmission dynamics.
- To review current and emerging therapeutic options, preventative strategies, and control measures for MERS-CoV.
- To emphasize the importance of public awareness and early diagnosis in managing MERS outbreaks.
Main Methods:
- This narrative review synthesizes information from existing literature on MERS-CoV.
- It examines genetic analyses, epidemiological reports, clinical observations, and ongoing research into treatments and vaccines.
Main Results:
- MERS-CoV likely originated in bats, spread to camels, and transmits via nosocomial and zoonotic routes, with person-to-person transmission most common in clinical settings.
- While no specific antivirals are approved, combinations show promise, and vaccines are under development.
- Early diagnosis and strict infection control are crucial for preventing hospital-associated outbreaks.
Conclusions:
- Effective MERS-CoV management relies on a multi-faceted approach including robust infection control, public education, and adherence to national regulations.
- Preventive measures encompass safe food handling, hygiene practices, and awareness of transmission risks.
- Continued research and development of medical countermeasures are essential to combat this priority pathogen.
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