Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) is a viral respiratory illness caused by the MERS coronavirus (MERS-CoV). The signs and symptoms of MERS can vary widely, ranging from no symptoms at all to severe respiratory distress and even death. The illness typically begins within 2 to 14 days after exposure to the virus.
The **primary and most common signs** of MERS include:
– **Fever:** Often one of the first symptoms, the fever can be high and persistent.
– **Cough:** Usually dry at the onset but can become productive (with mucus).
– **Shortness of breath:** Difficulty breathing or feeling breathless is a key symptom indicating respiratory involvement.
Beyond these hallmark symptoms, many patients experience additional signs that reflect the systemic nature of the infection:
– **Chills:** Shivering or shaking chills often accompany the fever.
– **Muscle aches (myalgia):** Generalized muscle pain and discomfort are common.
– **Sore throat:** Some patients report irritation or pain in the throat.
– **Runny nose:** Nasal congestion or discharge can occur but is less prominent than in common colds.
– **Headache:** Mild to moderate headaches may be present.
– **Gastrointestinal symptoms:** These include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain, which are less common but notable because they show the virus can affect more than just the respiratory tract.
In more severe cases, MERS can progress to serious complications such as:
– **Pneumonia:** Infection of the lungs causing inflammation and fluid buildup, often diagnosed clinically and confirmed by chest X-rays or CT scans.
– **Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS):** A life-threatening condition where the lungs cannot provide enough oxygen to the body, requiring intensive care and sometimes mechanical ventilation.
– **Kidney failure:** Some patients develop kidney dysfunction or failure, which complicates the illness and worsens prognosis.
The severity of symptoms can depend on the individual’s overall health. People with underlying medical conditions such as diabetes, chronic lung disease, or weakened immune systems are more likely to experience severe illness. In contrast, some infected individuals may have mild symptoms resembling a common cold or may even be asymptomatic, showing no signs of illness despite carrying the virus.
Symptom onset is usually sudden, with fever and cough appearing first, followed by shortness of breath within a few days. Gastrointestinal symptoms may appear early or later during the illness. The progression to severe respiratory distress can be rapid, necessitating urgent medical attention.
Because MERS symptoms overlap with those of other respiratory infections like influenza or COVID-19, diagnosis relies on clinical suspicion combined with laboratory testing. However, the presence of fever, cough, and breathing difficulty in someone with recent exposure to the Middle East or contact with camels or infected individuals should raise concern for MERS.
In summary, the signs of MERS start with fever, cough, and shortness of breath, often accompanied by muscle aches, sore throat, and sometimes gastrointestinal symptoms. Severe cases can lead to pneumonia, respiratory failure, and kidney problems, especially in vulnerable populations. The illness can range from mild to fatal, making awareness of these symptoms critical for early detection and treatment.
