Camels have been a crucial part of the human culture for thousands of years. They are used for transportation in dry and arid regions like the Middle East, where they are also an important source of food and income.

However, these creatures might be responsible for another deadly disease outbreak, the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS). MERS is a type of coronavirus that was first identified in Saudi Arabia in 2012, and it has since spread throughout various regions in the world. In this article, we will take a closer look at what everyone should know about the MERS virus.

What is MERS Virus?

Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV), also known as Camel Flu, is a viral respiratory illness caused by a coronavirus that was first identified in Saudi Arabia in 2012.

Since then, there have been multiple outbreaks of MERS in the Middle East, particularly in the Arabian Peninsula. MERS is a zoonotic virus, meaning it is transmitted to humans from animals (usually camels). The majority of MERS cases have occurred in the Middle East, but the virus has spread to other regions of the world, including Europe, Asia, and North America.

Symptoms of MERS Virus

The symptoms of MERS vary from person to person, but they often include:.

Fever
Cough
Shortness of breath
Breathing difficulties
Pneumonia
Body aches
Diarrhea

It is important to note that not everyone who is infected with MERS will exhibit symptoms. Some people may have mild symptoms, while others may develop more severe respiratory or organ failure.

People with weakened immune systems, the elderly, and those with pre-existing medical conditions are at a higher risk of developing severe symptoms if they become infected with MERS.

Transmission of the MERS Virus

As mentioned earlier, camels are the primary source of MERS infection. It is believed that the virus is transmitted to humans through close contact with infected camels, either through direct contact with the animal or consumption of its meat or milk.

Human-to-human transmission of MERS is possible but is limited to close contact with an infected person. The virus is not known to be transmitted through casual contact, such as shaking hands or sitting next to somebody who is infected with MERS.

Prevention and Treatment of the MERS Virus

As of now, there is no specific antiviral treatment for MERS. However, supportive medical care can help alleviate symptoms and prevent complications. There is also no vaccine available for MERS, but multiple organizations are working on developing one.

The best way to prevent MERS infection is to avoid contact with camels or people who are known to be infected with the virus.

If you must work with camels or are in close contact with someone who is infected with MERS, it is important to protect yourself by wearing gloves, face masks, and other protective equipment. Additionally, frequent hand washing and disinfecting surfaces can help prevent the spread of the virus.

MERS Virus and Travel

Since MERS has been reported in various countries around the world, travel-related cases of the virus have been recorded. If you are planning to travel to a region where MERS is present, it is important to take certain precautions to protect yourself.

First and foremost, you should avoid contact with camels or camel products, including meat, milk, and urine. Additionally, you should wash your hands frequently, especially after touching surfaces that may be contaminated with the virus.

If you develop symptoms of MERS during your travels or after returning home, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.

MERS Virus and the Future

MERS is a relatively new virus, and there is still much that is unknown about how it spreads and how it affects the human body.

However, scientists and health organizations around the world are working to understand MERS better and find ways to prevent and control its spread. With continued research and education, it is hoped that the impact of MERS on human health will be minimized in the future.

Conclusion

MERS is a potentially deadly virus that is transmitted to humans from camels. Although the virus has primarily been reported in the Middle East, cases have been reported in other regions around the world.

It is important to take precautions when working with camels or traveling to regions where MERS is present, and to seek medical attention if you develop symptoms of the virus. With continued research and education, it is hoped that MERS can be better understood and controlled in the future.