Summary

This is the bi-annual update on Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV) infections reported to WHO from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Between 1 August 2021 to 28 February 2022, six additional cases of MERS-CoV infections, including four associated deaths were reported to WHO from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. These cases were reported from Riyadh (four cases), Eastern (one case), and Taif (one case) regions. Based on the current situation and available information, WHO re-emphasizes the importance of strong surveillance by all Member States for acute respiratory infections, including MERS-CoV, and careful review of any unusual patterns.

Description of cases

Since the last Disease Outbreak News on MERS-CoV in Saudi Arabia published on 17 August 2021, the National IHR Focal Point of Saudi Arabia has reported six additional cases, including four associated deaths. The geographical distribution of these reported cases is shown in Figure 1.

Figure 1. Geographical distribution of MERS-CoV cases between 1 August 2021 to 28 February 2022 by region, Saudi Arabia (n=6)