Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS)

Patients with confirmed infection should have their vital signs (i.e., respiratory rate, heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen saturation) monitored regularly. Renal function, liver function, and coagulation profile should also be monitored.

Frequency of specimen collection depends on local circumstances. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that respiratory tract specimens for real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) should be collected at least every 2 to 4 days in the initial 2 weeks, and continue until there are 2 negative test results to confirm clearance of the virus.[75]World Health Organization. Clinical management of severe acute respiratory infection when Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) infection is suspected. Interim guidance. Jan 2019 [internet publication]. https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/WHO-MERS-Clinical-15-1-Revision-1 The Ministry of Health (Saudi Arabia) recommends repeat testing 1 week after diagnosis.[73]Ministry of Health (Saudi Arabia). Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus; guidelines for healthcare professionals, version 5.1. May 2018 [internet publication]. https://www.moh.gov.sa/CCC/healthp/regulations/Documents/MERS-CoV%20Guidelines%20for%20Healthcare%20Professionals%20-%20May%202018%20-%20v5.1%20%281%29.pdf