The Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV) virus was first identified in Saudi Arabia as a novel coronavirus in 2012 causing severe respiratory illness in persons in the Middle East. MERS-CoV is highly virulent and about one-third of known infected individuals die from the infection. This white paper provides guidance for identification of the MERS-CoV. The updated version includes additional background information, current specimen collection, testing, reporting and biosafety guidance.
This guideline was developed on behalf of the American Society for Microbiology Clinical and Public Health Microbiology Committee, Laboratory Practices Subcommittee.
Contact Information
ASM's Clinical and Public Health Microbiology Committee, clinmicro@asmusa.org.