Health officials have confirmed that a second case of MERS (Middle East Respiratory Syndrome) has been reported in the US. The patient is a healthcare worker who lives and works in Saudi Arabia and was visiting Florida.

The first case was reported on May 2, in Indiana.

What is MERS?

MERS is a viral respiratory illness first reported in Saudi Arabia in 2012. It is caused by a coronavirus called MERS-CoV. Symptoms include fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Some people have reported diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting.

The virus has a higher mortality rate than the SARS virus which caused a global pandemic in 2003, killing nearly 800 people.

How is MERS spread?

MERS is spread through close contact with infected people. The virus has been found in the air and can survive on surfaces for several hours.

There is evidence that the virus can be spread through contact with camels, and it is thought that the virus may have originated in bats. To date, there have been over 1,000 reported cases of MERS in 27 countries.

What precautions can be taken to prevent the spread of MERS?

The CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) recommends that people who are traveling to the Middle East, or who have recently traveled to the region, take precautions such as washing their hands frequently, avoiding contact with sick people, and avoiding contact with camels. People who are sick should also stay home. Healthcare workers should use protective equipment such as masks, gloves, and gowns when caring for patients with MERS.

What is being done to contain the spread of MERS in the US?

In response to the two cases of MERS in the US, the CDC has activated its Emergency Operations Center to coordinate the agency’s response.

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The CDC is working with state and local health departments to identify people who may have been in contact with the two patients and is monitoring their health. The CDC is also working with the World Health Organization (WHO) and other health agencies to share information and coordinate efforts to contain the spread of the virus.

How concerned should people be about MERS?

While the two cases of MERS in the US are a cause for concern, it is important to remember that the virus is still relatively rare and has not yet been shown to spread efficiently from person to person.

The CDC says that the risk of contracting MERS in the US is still very low.

What should people do if they think they may have been exposed to MERS?

People who have traveled to the Middle East and have symptoms of MERS should seek medical attention right away.

It is important to tell your healthcare provider if you have traveled to the Middle East or have been in contact with someone who is sick with MERS. Healthcare providers should also consider MERS as a possible diagnosis when evaluating patients with respiratory illness who have traveled to the Middle East or have been in contact with someone who is sick with MERS.

Final Thoughts

The confirmation of a second case of MERS in the US is a reminder that infectious diseases can travel quickly across borders.

It is important that people take steps to protect themselves and others from MERS and other infectious diseases by practicing good hygiene and seeking medical attention when needed.