MERS
Short description
MERS (Middle East Respiratory Syndrome) is an infectious disease caused by the MERS-CoV coronavirus, which primarily affects the respiratory tract.
Detailed description
MERS-CoV was first detected in humans in 2012. Dromedaries are a major source of transmission of the virus to humans. Human-to-human transmission is also possible and has been observed particularly during close contact and in healthcare facilities.
An infection may be asymptomatic or present with mild symptoms, but it can also lead to severe respiratory illness with pneumonia and other complications. Severe and fatal cases occur primarily in older adults and people with certain underlying medical conditions. Most MERS cases have been reported on the Arabian Peninsula.