Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV): A Perpetual Challenge

2][3][4] The case fatality rate (CFR) in patients infected with MERS-CoV is high-estimated at 43% in 147 patients reported so far by World Health Organization (WHO). 3This rate is higher than that of SARS-estimated at 15%, and is strongly age-and sex-dependent. 4 Although the source of virus in patients with sporadic infection remains unknown, it appears likely to be some species of animal. 4,5Clear evidence of limited human-to-human transmission of MERS-CoV has now been documented in several case clusters, including particularly family members and patients in health care facilities, 6-8 but all such clusters have, at least thus far, been limited in extent.However, a real concern persists that the virus will adapt to interhuman transmission and switch from an aborted epidemic to a pandemic similar to the SARS-CoV epidemic in 2003-2004.MERS-CoV is transmitted through droplets and contact.In the case of invasive respiratory procedures, MERS-CoV is transmitted through airborne route. 2 Early diagnosis and strict implementation of the core components for infection prevention and control programs are crucial for preventing epidemic amplification. 2 In the absence of an effective vaccine and a specific antiviral treatment, there is an urgent need to rapidly identify potential therapeutics.