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Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV)
Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV)
Update #1 Date- 05/11/2026
Occurrence Update
Eight laboratory-confirmed cases of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV), including one death, were reported in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia between 1 January and 5 October 2026.
The cases were reported from six locations: Riyadh (2), Taif (2), Al Jouf (1), Arar (1), Hafr Al-Batin (1), and Tabuk (1).
All eight patients were symptomatic, with fever reported in six cases, difficulty in breathing in five cases, and cough in four cases.
Five patients were aged 70 years or above, and seven had underlying medical conditions.
Two patients reported direct contact with camels, while the remaining six had no known camel exposure.
No epidemiological links were identified among the reported cases, indicating sporadic infections rather than a single outbreak cluster. None of the cases were reported among healthcare workers.
About MERS-CoV
MERS-CoV is a zoonotic respiratory virus primarily transmitted to humans through direct or indirect contact with infected dromedary camels or their products.
Human-to-human transmission can also occur, particularly among close household contacts and in healthcare settings.
The disease can range from asymptomatic or mild respiratory illness to severe pneumonia, acute respiratory distress, and death.
Symptoms
Common symptoms of MERS-CoV include:
- Fever
- Cough
- Breathing difficulties
Some patients may also experience gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhoea.
People at Higher Risk
Older adults and individuals with underlying medical conditions are at greater risk of developing severe illness.
Conditions associated with increased risk include:
- Diabetes
- Kidney disease
- Chronic lung disease
- Weakened immune systems
Global MERS-CoV Situation
As of 5 October 2026, a total of 2,643 laboratory-confirmed MERS cases, including 965 deaths, had been reported globally since the virus was first identified in 2012.
Saudi Arabia accounted for 2,232 cases and 870 deaths, representing approximately 84% of the global reported cases.
Public Health Response
Saudi Arabian health authorities have strengthened surveillance and incorporated MERS-CoV testing into diagnostic algorithms for patients testing negative for influenza and COVID-19.
Contact tracing was conducted for all confirmed cases, and no secondary cases were identified.
Healthcare facilities have reinforced infection prevention and control measures, including:
- Early identification of suspected cases
- Isolation of patients
- Appropriate use of personal protective equipment
- Contact precautions
- Droplet precautions
Prevention
Preventive measures for reducing the risk of MERS-CoV infection include:
- Maintaining proper hand hygiene
- Avoiding contact with sick camels
- Avoiding consumption of raw camel milk
- Avoiding consumption of camel urine
- Ensuring that camel meat is thoroughly cooked
Public Health Risk
The regional and global public health risk remains moderate owing to the continued occurrence of sporadic zoonotic infections and the potential for healthcare-associated transmission.
No special screening at points of entry or travel and trade restrictions have been recommended.
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