Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Flashcards, test questions and answers

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What is Middle East Respiratory Syndrome?

Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) is an emerging infectious disease caused by a novel coronavirus, named Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV). First reported in Saudi Arabia in 2012, this virus has since spread to more than 25 countries and has caused hundreds of deaths. MERS is highly contagious and can cause severe respiratory illness with symptoms such as fever, coughing, and shortness of breath.The exact source of the virus remains unknown, but it has been linked to camels and other animals. Transmission usually occurs when people come into contact with infected animals or through human-to-human contact. Individuals at greatest risk are those who have had close contact with someone infected with MERS or who have traveled to areas where the virus is present. Prevention measures include frequent hand washing, avoiding close contact with people who are ill, avoiding contact with camels or raw camel products (such as milk), and wearing masks in crowded areas or healthcare settings. Vaccines for MERS are currently being developed; however, there is no current treatment for the virus itself. It is important for healthcare professionals to be aware of MERS so that they can take appropriate steps to protect themselves from infection and also help prevent its spread by recognizing cases early on and following recommended protocols for patient care. Moreover, educating the public about prevention measures such as proper hand hygiene and avoiding close contact with sick individuals will help reduce the risk of transmission.