Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV)

Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) is a serious respiratory disease caused by Middle East Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV). MERS-CoV was first reported in Saudi Arabia in 2012. Since then, it has spread to other countries, including the United States.

Most people infected with MERS-CoV develop severe respiratory illness and have symptoms including fever, cough, shortness of breath, and breathing difficulties. Many patients with MERS have developed severe complications including pneumonia and kidney failure.

MERS-CoV has been shown to spread between people who are in close contact. All reported cases of MERS in the United States have been linked to international travel to countries in the Arabian Peninsula.


About MERS

Information for providers

MERS is a Category I reportable condition in Wisconsin. Clinicians must report suspected and confirmed MERS cases immediately by telephone to the patient’s local or tribal health department. Reporting should be completed within 24 hours upon recognition of a case.

Interim Local Health Departments MERS-CoV investigation short form (PDF)

Last revised August 9, 2022