Middle East respiratory syndrome

Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) is an acute viral respiratory tract infection caused by the novel betacoronavirus. Cases have been limited to the Arabian Peninsula and its surrounding countries, and to travellers from the Middle East or their contacts. The clinical spectrum of infection varies from no symptoms or mild respiratory symptoms to severe, rapidly progressive pneumonia, acute respiratory distress syndrome, septic shock, or multiorgan failure resulting in death. In this podcast Sarah Shalhoub, infectious diseases consultant at King Fahad Armed Forces Hospital, in Saudi Arabia joins us to discuss the history of the disease, clinical presentation, and what can be done to support those infected. Read the full clinical update: http://www.bmj.com/content/355/bmj.i5281