The WHO reported four new MERS cases in Saudi Arabia since September, two of which were fatal. Infected individuals aged 27 to 78 had underlying health issues and were exposed either in hospitals or through camel contact. The case-fatality rate for MERS remains at 36%, with ongoing vaccine developments but no approved treatments currently available.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported four new cases of Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) in Saudi Arabia since September 6, 2024, two of which resulted in fatalities. MERS, caused by the MERS coronavirus (MERS-CoV), can lead to severe respiratory issues and primarily spreads through contact with infected camels or their products. Person-to-person transmission is rare.
Among the four patients, aged between 27 and 78 years, all possessed underlying health conditions. One individual contracted the virus in a hospital setting, while another was indirectly exposed to camels and unpasteurized milk. None of the affected were healthcare workers, with cases located in the Hail (two cases), Riyadh (one case), and Eastern (one case) provinces.
Currently, there are no vaccines or specific treatments for MERS; however, several vaccines and therapeutics are under development. Investigations by the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Health into the close contacts of these cases revealed no additional secondary infections. The most recent MERS case was reported on February 4, 2025.
Despite these new cases, the WHO maintains that the overall risk assessment remains moderate on both regional and global levels. The organization emphasized that MERS continues to present a threat, particularly in areas where it circulates among dromedary camels in the Middle East.
Since its emergence in 2012, MERS has infected 2,618 individuals across 27 countries, with a concerning case-fatality rate of 36%. Most infections, approximately 84%, have been identified in Saudi Arabia, and no cases have been reported outside the Middle East since 2019. Treatment for MERS is primarily supportive, concentrating on symptom management according to the severity of the illness.
In summary, the WHO’s recent update on MERS highlights the importance of monitoring the spread of this disease in Saudi Arabia, where new cases have emerged. Given the inherent risks associated with MERS, particularly in regions with dromedary camel populations, ongoing vigilance is necessary. Advancements in vaccine development may provide future solutions, although current treatment options remain limited.
Original Source: www.cidrap.umn.edu
