Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) Signs and symptoms
Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) is a viral respiratory illness caused by a coronavirus called Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV). The virus can spread from camels to people through direct physical contact. Limited human-to-human transmission is possible. MERS has caused severe respiratory disease in most diagnosed cases, and many of those patients died. Typical symptoms include fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Most MERS cases have been detected in countries in or near the Arabian Peninsula. However, a number of cases linked to travel have been detected in countries outside this region. For more information about travel guidelines for your destination, visit CDC’s Travelers’ Health site. MERS is a viral respiratory illness. Most MERS cases have been detected in countries in or near the Arabian Peninsula. MERS represents a very low risk to the general public in the United States Most people with confirmed MERS-CoV infection have had severe respiratory illness. MERS symptoms usually appear 5 or 6 days after a person is exposed. However, symptoms can appear as early as 2 days and up to 14 days after exposure. Common symptoms of MERS include:
You may be at increased risk of getting MERS if you:
You may be at increased risk of getting MERS if you: Recently (in the past 14 days) returned from travel in or near the Arabian Peninsula, and especially if you also: Worked in or visited a healthcare setting. Had direct physical contact with camels (including touching or grooming). Had close contact with a person who was sick with fever or respiratory symptoms Had close contact in the past 14 days with someone who was sick with fever or respiratory symptoms of unknown cause after they had traveled in or near the Arabian Peninsula . Had close contact in the past 14 days with someone who has tested positive for MERS
When to call your healthcare provider
If you develop fever or symptoms of respiratory illness, such as cough or shortness of breath, within 14 days of the above activities, call a healthcare provider. Tell your healthcare provider about any reason you may be at increased risk for MERS.
