What Nurses Should Know About MERS-CoV

The Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus or MERS-CoV has recently had an outbreak in the Arabian peninsula, with over a hundred confirmed deaths in Saudi Arabia.

On May 2, 2014, the first confirmed case of MERS has been reported in a traveler in the United States.

Nursing exam reviewer Carl Balita posted an infographic on what nurses should know about the dreaded virus. Check below and share.

What is MERS-CoV?

MERS-CoV is a viral respiratory illness, previously known as Novel Coronavirus or SARS-like virus, and a member of Corona family. It was first reported in Saudi Arabia in 2012. The infection may spread through close contact.

Signs and Symptoms

• Cough
• Shortness of breath
• Body malaise
• Chest pain
• Fever
• Diarrhea
• Renal Failure

Potential Complications

• Pneumonia
• Renal Failure
• Death - over 60%

Preventive Measures

• Frequent handwashing with soap and water
• Avoid close contact with sick people
• Avoid contact with unwashed fruits and vegetables, and undercooked meat
• Cover nose and mouth with tissue paper when coughing and sneezing. Dispose used tissue paper immediately and properly.
• Regularly clean frequently touched surfaces
• Avoid touching mucus membrane with unwashed hands

Treatment

According to CDC and WHO, there are no specific treatment for affected patients, only supportive care is initiated to manage symptoms, prevent complications and attempting to improve the patient's comfort and quality of life.

Reported countries with MERS-CoV cases

• Saudi Arabia
• United Arab Emirates (UAE)
• Qatar
• Oman
• Jordan
• Kuwait
• United Kingdom (UK)
• France
• Tunisia
• Italy
• Malaysia
• United States of America (USA)

Please share this information to all nurses.