No New MERS Cases in Saudi Arabia

The World Health Organization (WHO) recently reported that from April 2012 until May 2023, 2,604 laboratory-confirmed cases of Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) were reported globally.

During May 2023, no new cases were reported.

As of June 20, 2023, there have been 936 associated deaths at a case-fatality ratio (CFR) of 36%.

Most of these cases were reported from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, with 2,196 cases and 855 related deaths (CFR: 39%).

Among primary cases, 50–59 year-olds are at the highest risk for acquiring a MERS infection; among secondary cases, 30–39 year-olds are at the highest risk.

Among both primary and secondary cases, CFR is higher within the age group of 70–79.

As of June 2023, there are no MERS vaccines authorized.