MERS Symptoms: What You Need to Know About This Serious Respiratory Infection
Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) is a viral respiratory illness that first surfaced in Saudi Arabia in 2012. Since then, it has travelled across borders, sparking concern due to its high mortality rate. Understanding MERS symptoms is crucial, especially for those living in or travelling to regions where the virus is prevalent.
While the world has become very familiar with the coronavirus family in recent years, MERS-CoV remains a distinct and particularly aggressive strain. It is a zoonotic virus, meaning it spreads from animals to humans, with a specific link to dromedary camels. In this guide, we will break down the signs, risks, and what you should do if you suspect an infection.
Recognising the Primary MERS Symptoms
The MERS symptoms typically appear after an incubation period of about 5 or 6 days, though this can range from 2 to 14 days. The illness usually presents as a severe acute respiratory illness. For many, it starts like a typical winter bug but quickly escalates.
The most common clinical features include:
- Fever: High temperature, often accompanied by chills and shivering.
- Cough: Usually dry at first, but it can become more productive over time.
- Shortness of breath: Difficulty breathing or a feeling of chest tightness.
According to the World Health Organisation, some patients also experience gastrointestinal issues, such as diarrhoea, nausea, or vomiting. In mild or asymptomatic cases, a person may show no signs at all, but they can still potentially spread the virus to others in close contact.
When MERS Becomes Severe
In many instances, MERS progresses to more dangerous complications. This is more likely to occur in older adults or those with pre-existing conditions like diabetes, cancer, or chronic lung disease. The NHS notes that severe cases often require intensive care.
Pneumonia and Respiratory Distress
The virus primarily attacks the lungs, leading to pneumonia. This can cause the lungs to fill with fluid, making it incredibly difficult for oxygen to reach the bloodstream. In these cases, mechanical ventilation is often necessary.
Organ Failure
A hallmark of severe viral respiratory infection is the impact on other bodily systems. Organ failure, particularly kidney failure, has been observed in a significant number of MERS patients. The Mayo Clinic highlights that the inflammatory response to the virus can lead to septic shock.
Comparing MERS to Other Respiratory Illnesses
Because the initial MERS symptoms can mimic the common cold or seasonal flu, it is helpful to see how they differ in severity and typical progression.
| Feature | Common Cold | Seasonal Flu | MERS |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fever | Rare | Common/High | Very Common/High |
| Cough | Mild to Moderate | Common (Dry) | Severe/Progressive |
| Shortness of Breath | Rare | Rare | Common and Severe |
| Complications | Sinusitis | Pneumonia (Occasional) | Pneumonia & Kidney Failure |
| Mortality Rate | Very Low | <0.1% | ~35% |
Who is at Risk?
MERS is often considered a travel-related illness. Most cases have occurred in the Arabian Peninsula, particularly in Saudi Arabia. Research published in Nature suggests that while human-to-human transmission does occur, it usually happens in healthcare settings or among family members providing direct care.
You may be at higher risk if you:
- Have recently travelled to the Middle East.
- Have had direct contact with dromedary camels or consumed raw camel milk/urine.
- Are a healthcare worker treating patients with respiratory distress without proper PPE.
- Have a weakened immune system due to pre-existing conditions.
The CDC emphasises that people with underlying health issues are much more likely to experience the most severe MERS symptoms.
Diagnosis and Medical Care
If you exhibit MERS symptoms after travelling, it is vital to contact a healthcare provider immediately. Diagnosis typically involves laboratory tests such as PCR (polymerase chain reaction) to detect the virus’s genetic material. The Lancet Infectious Diseases has documented that early detection can help in managing complications.
Currently, there is no specific antiviral treatment or vaccine for MERS. Medical care is “supportive,” meaning doctors focus on relieving symptoms and supporting vital organ functions. Ongoing research at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) is looking into potential vaccines and therapies.
Transmission Prevention and Safety
The best way to manage MERS is through transmission prevention. Because the virus is zoonotic, avoiding contact with camels in high-risk regions is the first line of defence. The ECDC provides regular risk assessments for international travellers.
Practical steps include:
- Washing hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- Avoiding raw camel milk or undercooked camel meat.
- Following the latest UK Government travel advice when visiting affected regions.
- Using alcohol-based hand sanitiser if soap isn’t available.
Understanding the epidemiology is essential, as noted by Johns Hopkins Medicine, which tracks how viral respiratory infections evolve over time.
The Global Perspective
While outbreaks have been sporadic, the potential for a global health crisis remains a topic of study. Articles in ScienceDirect explore the pathogenesis of the virus, noting its ability to stay dormant in camel populations. The New England Journal of Medicine has tracked major outbreaks, including the 2015 surge in South Korea, highlighting how quickly the virus can spread in hospital environments.
For those interested in the clinical nuances, The BMJ provides excellent resources for doctors to differentiate MERS from other respiratory conditions. Furthermore, the Saudi Ministry of Health offers localised insights into how the virus is being managed at its epicentre.
Researchers often use databases like PubMed to track viral shedding and the duration of infectivity, which helps in refining quarantine protocols.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can MERS be cured?
There is currently no specific cure or vaccine for MERS. Treatment involves supportive care, such as oxygen therapy, fluids, and medication to manage fever and pain. Early hospitalisation is critical for those with severe MERS symptoms.
How do you catch MERS?
MERS is primarily caught through close contact with infected dromedary camels or through human-to-human transmission in settings like hospitals or households. It spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
Is MERS more dangerous than COVID-19?
While COVID-19 spreads much more easily and has caused a global pandemic, MERS has a much higher case-fatality rate. Roughly 3 or 4 out of every 10 people reported with MERS have died, making the MERS symptoms a significant cause for clinical concern.
What should I do if I think I have MERS?
If you have recently travelled to the Middle East and develop a fever, cough, or shortness of breath, phone your doctor or local health service immediately. Mention your travel history so they can take necessary precautions during your assessment.
