Health Ministry: MERS virus has not mutated and the epidemiological situation is safe and stable
The Saudi Ministry of Health has put an end to the widespread debate that recently arose on social media and in some media outlets regarding updates on Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS-CoV), commonly known as the MERS virus. The Ministry, through its Deputy Minister for Public Health, Dr. Abdullah Asiri, affirmed that the epidemiological situation in the Kingdom is completely safe and stable, categorically denying the existence of any indicators that should cause concern.
The truth about the World Health Organization report
Dr. Asiri clarified that the anticipation surrounding the recent report issued by the World Health Organization was based on “inaccurate” interpretations of its content. He pointed out that the report was a routine procedure, part of member states’ obligations under the International Health Regulations to report observed cases, and did not contain any exceptional warnings or indications of a new outbreak. He emphasized that the transparency adopted by the Kingdom in sharing data is a testament to the strength of its health system, not a cause for concern.
Decreasing infection rates and stabilization of the virus
The ministry relied on official and statistical data to confirm the stability of the situation, revealing that MERS infection rates have witnessed a record and tangible decline, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic. The recorded numbers remain at very low levels compared to the years following the virus's initial emergence, completely refuting the hypotheses about an escalating spread or new waves.
Historical background and nature of the virus
To further clarify the nature of the disease, MERS is a type of coronavirus, first discovered in Saudi Arabia in 2012. Since then, the Saudi healthcare system has accumulated significant experience in managing and isolating cases. The virus is a viral respiratory illness caused by the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV), which differs entirely in its genetic makeup from SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19.
No genetic mutations and the source of infection is known
Regarding its biological characteristics, the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Health emphasized that the virus has not undergone any genetic changes or mutations in its behavior or structure since its discovery. The virus remains endemic in its natural environment within camels (the animal reservoir) and is only transmitted to humans in very limited circumstances related to unsafe direct contact with infected camels, or in extremely rare cases between humans when infection control measures are not followed in healthcare facilities.
Prevention and community awareness
The ministry concluded its statement by urging everyone not to be swayed by rumors or misinterpretations of international reports, stressing the importance of obtaining information from official and reliable sources. It also emphasized the importance of adhering to well-known general preventative measures when handling animals, especially camels, to ensure the continued stability of public health that the Kingdom enjoys thanks to its robust healthcare infrastructure.
