The Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS-CoV) coronavirus is an
infectious viral disease. It has emerged rapidly from Saudi Arabia and later spread to
other countries. MERS-CoV resulted in a 35% case fatality rate and became a global
public health priority. The MERS-CoV has been heavily endemic in dromedary camel
populations of the Middle East and belongs to the 2C lineage of beta-CoV. This virus
expresses the dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP4) receptor and causes severe acute
respiratory syndrome in humans. However, the specific mechanism of zoonotic
transmission from dromedaries to humans remains unclear. Despite new efforts and
significant advancements in the public health care system, numerous gaps exist in
understanding MERS-CoV infections. This chapter summarized the molecular
virulence of MERS-CoV, associated immune responses, variations in spike proteins,
pathogenesis, and genetic differences in MERS-CoV, SARS-CoV, and SARS-CoV-2.
Furthermore, new protocols and active surveillance programs are much needed to
evaluate future reoccurrence of MERS-CoV infections and test antiviral agents to
develop vaccines that can be useful in treating MERS-CoV.
Keywords: DPP4, Dromedary camels, MERS-CoV, Viral disease, Zoonotic.
