SARS & MERS Flashcards
What is SARS?
Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) is a contagious and sometimes fatal respiratory illness caused by a coronavirus.
SARS coronavirus is thought to be an animal virus (animal reservoir perhaps being bats) that spread to other animals (civet cats).
SARS first appeared in 2002 in China.
It is extremely rare, like fewer than 5 thousand cases per year (India).
For diagnosis, lab tests or imaging is always required.
In general, SARS begins with a high fever (temperature greater than 100.4°F).
Other symptoms may include headache, an overall feeling of discomfort, body aches and difficulty in breathing.
After 2 to 7 days, SARS patients may develop a dry cough with most patients developing pneumonia.
How does it spread?
By airborne respiratory droplets (coughs or sneezes)
By touching a contaminated surface (blanket or doorknob)
By saliva (kissing or shared drinks)
By skin-to-skin contact (handshakes or hugs)
What is MERS?
Middle East respiratory syndrome-related coronavirus (MERS-CoV), is a single-stranded RNA virus of the genus Betacoronavirus.
Initially called novel coronavirus, it was first reported in 2012.
As of July 2015, MERS-CoV cases have been reported in over 21 countries.
MERS-CoV is one of several viruses identified by the WHO as a likely cause of a future epidemic.
MERS-CoV is distinct from SARS coronavirus and the common-cold coronavirus.
What is source of MERS?
MERS-CoV is a zoonotic virus, which means it is a virus that is transmitted between animals and people. Studies have shown that humans are infected through direct or indirect contact with infected dromedary camels.
Transmission of MERS?
Non-human to human transmission: The route of transmission from animals to humans is not fully understood, but dromedary camels are the major reservoir host for MERS-CoV and an animal source of infection in humans.
