2018 MERS outbreak
2018 MERS Outbreak
The 2018 MERS Outbreak (pronunciation: /mɛrs/), also known as the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome outbreak, was a significant health event that occurred in 2018. The outbreak was caused by the MERS-CoV (Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus), a virus first identified in Saudi Arabia in 2012.
Etymology
The term "MERS" is an acronym derived from the disease's full name, Middle East Respiratory Syndrome. The term "outbreak" refers to the occurrence of cases of disease in a population or area where the disease is not regularly found.
Overview
The 2018 MERS outbreak was characterized by a sudden increase in the number of MERS-CoV cases in several countries, primarily in the Middle East. The disease is a viral respiratory illness, which is caused by a coronavirus. The majority of human cases of MERS have been attributed to human-to-human infections in healthcare settings.
Symptoms
The symptoms of MERS can range from mild to severe and include fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Some people also suffer from gastrointestinal symptoms, including diarrhea and nausea/vomiting. For many people with MERS, more severe complications can follow, such as pneumonia and kidney failure.
Transmission
MERS-CoV is thought to be transmitted from animals, specifically dromedary camels, to humans. It can also spread from human to human, particularly in healthcare settings.
Prevention and Treatment
There is currently no specific treatment for MERS. Individuals with MERS often receive medical care to help relieve symptoms. Prevention measures include standard infection control practices, such as hand hygiene and wearing personal protective equipment.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on 2018 MERS outbreak
- Wikipedia's article - 2018 MERS outbreak
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