MERS virus stabilization: UN report praises Saudi efforts
A joint international report issued by the alliance of four UN organizations, which includes the World Health Organization, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the World Organisation for Animal Health, and the United Nations Environment Programme, confirmed that the epidemiological situation of the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) virus remains stable at a “medium” level globally, without any significant changes in the virus’s behavior being observed.
Statistics and facts about the virus
The report, issued under the auspices of the International Collaborating Centre for Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) of the Saudi Public Health Authority (Weqaya), revealed the latest statistics related to the virus. Since the virus was first discovered in 2012, 2,635 laboratory-confirmed cases have been recorded up to the date of the report. These cases have resulted in 964 deaths, bringing the case fatality rate to approximately 37%, a figure that necessitates continued vigilance and close monitoring.
The report clarified that dromedary camels remain the only confirmed natural reservoir for the virus, with most human infections occurring through direct or indirect contact with infected camels. Genetically, the report confirmed the continued genetic stability of the virus and the dominance of the "Clade B" strain, which is responsible for all recorded human cases since 2014, indicating the absence of any new, concerning mutations.
Historical context and nature of the disease
Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS-CoV) is a viral respiratory illness caused by a coronavirus. It was first identified in Saudi Arabia in 2012. Symptoms range from mild to severe, including fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Due to its viral nature and associated mortality rates, it has garnered significant global attention, prompting the Kingdom to develop a robust healthcare infrastructure for surveillance and control, which has become a global model.
The Kingdom's leading role and the "One Health" approach
In a related context, the Deputy Minister of Health for Population Health, Dr. Abdullah Asiri, stated that the international report reinforces confidence in the health measures implemented, noting that scientific data supports the stability of the epidemiological situation. He emphasized that the success of infection control programs within healthcare facilities played a crucial role in preventing a recurrence of the large outbreaks witnessed in some regions in previous years.
Dr. Asiri added that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, represented by the Public Health Authority, plays a pivotal leadership role on the international stage, as it hosts the only international center specializing in MERS. This work is carried out according to the "One Health" approach, an integrated approach that recognizes the close link between human health, animal health, and environmental safety, thus ensuring a more comprehensive and effective response to epidemics.
Integration of national and international efforts
This stability is a result of integrated efforts between international partners and relevant national authorities, most notably the Saudi Ministry of Health and the Saudi Food and Drug Authority. This ongoing collaboration aims to enhance preparedness, prevention, and public health protection, not only locally but also to ensure regional and international health security, especially given the Kingdom's status as a global destination for millions of visitors and pilgrims annually.
