JSOM Header

Middle East Respiratory Syndrome

Winter 2015

Shishido AA, Letizia A. 15(4). 99 - 101. (Journal Article)

Abstract

Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) emerged in the Arabian Peninsula in 2012, and subsequently spread to other countries in Europe and Asia, and to the United States. As of August 2015, the disease has infected 1,400 patients, of whom 500 have died, yielding a 36% mortality rate. The exact mode of transmission is unknown and there are no proven treatments. While the overall case rate for MERS has been low, its presence in countries that house US troops, unknown mode of transmission, and high mortality rate make it a significant health concern among US military personnel.

Keywords: Middle East Respiratory Syndrome; Coronavirus; epidemiology; clinical presentation

PMID: 26630103

Buy Now