The WHO reported four new MERS cases in Saudi Arabia since September 6, 2024, two of which resulted in death. All patients had underlying conditions and were exposed to the virus through camel-related contact. No vaccines or specific treatments are available, while ongoing monitoring revealed no secondary infections among close contacts. The case-fatality rate stands at 36% since 2012, primarily affecting Saudi Arabia.
The World Health Organization (WHO) provided its latest update on Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) in Saudi Arabia, reporting that four new cases have emerged since September 6, 2024, two of which have resulted in fatalities. MERS, caused by the MERS coronavirus (MERS-CoV), often leads to severe respiratory symptoms, and primarily spreads through direct contact with infected camels, rather than person-to-person transmission.
The newly reported cases involve four men aged between 27 to 78 years, all with pre-existing medical conditions. Of these, one individual contracted the virus in a hospital setting, while another had indirect exposure through contact with camels and unpasteurized camel milk. The cases originated in Hail (2 cases), Riyadh (1 case), and Eastern provinces (1 case).
Currently, there are no available vaccines or targeted treatments for MERS, although research is ongoing to develop MERS-CoV specific vaccines and therapeutics. The Saudi Ministry of Health has monitored the close contacts of the ill individuals, confirming no further secondary infections up to the date of reporting. The most recent MERS case was documented on February 4, 2025.
The WHO emphasized that the emergence of these four cases does not significantly change the global or regional risk assessments, which remain moderate. They observed that MERS maintains its threat level in regions where it circulates among dromedary camels in the Middle East.
Since its discovery in 2012, MERS has infected 2,618 individuals across 27 countries, yielding a case-fatality rate of 36%. The majority of cases, approximately 84%, have been reported in Saudi Arabia, with no MERS infections documented outside the Middle East since 2019. The WHO reiterated the absence of a specific vaccine or treatment, stating that care is primarily supportive, targeting symptom management.
In summary, the WHO’s latest report highlights an alarming rise in MERS cases in Saudi Arabia, including fatalities. The ongoing threat of MERS, linked to camel interactions, underscores the necessity for vigilance in monitoring and researching vaccines and treatments. The historical context shows a high case-fatality rate, reinforcing the importance of public health measures in managing this infectious disease.
Original Source: www.cidrap.umn.edu
