Between September 6, 2024, and February 28, 2025, the World Health Organization (WHO) reported four laboratory-confirmed Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) cases in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). Two of the infections were deadly, which underscores the virus’s elevated mortality rate of 36%.
The zoonotic respiratory disease results from MERS-CoV viral infections that primarily spread between humans who come into contact with infected dromedary camels and their unprocessed dairy products. The viral disease ranges in severity, from mild respiratory problems to pneumonia to acute respiratory distress syndrome. The likelihood of severe outcomes increases among older patients and those suffering from chronic conditions, including diabetes and cancer, as well as lung and kidney diseases.
These newly reported cases arose from the Hail (2), Riyadh (1), and Eastern (1) provinces. The recent MERS-CoV cases originated from human-to-human contact, as none of the patients directly interacted with infected camels or their raw products. One patient developed symptoms after sharing a hospital room with another confirmed case.
Since 2012, WHO has recorded 2,618 laboratory-confirmed MERS-CoV cases with 945 deaths, 84% of which occurred in Saudi Arabia. MERS-CoV transmission declined due to COVID-19 pandemic control measures, but similar symptoms may have caused underreporting or misclassification of MERS cases at the time. In response to MERS, the KSA Ministry of Health has employed triage protocols and updated training to healthcare staff. WHO recommends the standard Infection and Prevention Protocol (IPC), which includes PPE use, patient isolation, and avoidance of unpasteurized camel products. WHO does not recommend any MERS-CoV-related travel restrictions or entry screening protocols. The scientific community continues to develop MERS-CoV vaccines as none have received official approval. In March 2025, the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) allocated $2.6 million to develop a vaccine candidate with Uvax Bio. Uvax plans to implement nanoparticle technology to improve the immune response. The technology is also under testing for HIV and represents a vital advancement potential for MERS-CoV prevention techniques. There is no timeline for when the public should expect a MERS-CoV vaccine, but public health officials hope that a treatment is approved before the next outbreak.
By Angel Kanda
Edited by Lotte Brush