Camel virus (MERS) reported from Qatar: a threat to the FIFA-2022 and Middle East

The World Health Organization (WHO) issued an alert about the Camel virus [Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS)]. Many countries are about to alert on this and recommend optimal hygiene measures and social distancing. Since being reported from Saudi Arabia in September 2012 for the first time, MERS-CoV has been reported from 27 countries. In the last decade, a total of 2600 MERS cases and 935 deaths (35% fatality rate) have been reported (https://applications.emro.who.int/docs/WHOEMCSR579E-eng.pdf?ua=1).1 All cases reportedly were linked to direct contact with dromedaries or urine and consuming their raw milk or improperly cooked meat. The study shows that MERS-CoV transmits through direct or indirect contact with infected dromedaries, although the exact route of transmission is not yet clear. Thus, this seemingly fatal disease is transmitted from animals to humans. From fever, cough, respiratory difficulties to gastrointestinal indications, the symptoms of MERS are quite similar to those of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The WHO also adds pneumonia, but it may not always develop. Infections range from asymptomatic or mild respiratory symptoms to severe acute respiratory disease and death.