5 Symptoms to Watch Out For: SARS vs. MERS Virus

Ever wondered how to tell the difference between SARS and MERS symptoms? Understanding these can be crucial for early detection and treatment.

Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) emerged in China in 2002, caused by the SARS-CoV-1 virus. It led to a global outbreak but was contained by 2004. Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) first appeared in Saudi Arabia in 2012, caused by the MERS-CoV virus. While less widespread than SARS, MERS has a higher fatality rate.

This article will compare the symptoms of SARS and MERS, helping you recognize and differentiate between them.

Overview of SARS and MERS

What is SARS?

Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) first appeared in China in 2002. It was caused by a virus called SARS-CoV, a type of coronavirus. This virus spread quickly across countries, causing a global outbreak. However, by 2004, the outbreak was controlled, and no new cases have been reported since then.

What is MERS?

Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) was first identified in Saudi Arabia in 2012. It is caused by MERS-CoV, another type of coronavirus. Unlike SARS, MERS didn’t spread as widely, but it has a higher mortality rate, making it more deadly for those infected. Although MERS outbreaks are rare, cases still occur, mostly in the Middle East.

Common Symptoms of Both SARS and MERS

SARS and MERS have many symptoms in common, which can make them hard to tell apart at first. Here are some of the most common ones:

• Fever: Usually high and sudden.
• Cough: Often dry but can also produce mucus.
• Shortness of Breath: Difficulty breathing or feeling out of breath.
• Fatigue: Extreme tiredness and lack of energy.

These symptoms can start mildly but may get worse over time. If you notice these signs, it’s important to seek medical advice, especially if you’ve been in an area affected by these viruses.

5 Key Symptoms to Watch Out For

Understanding the key symptoms of SARS and MERS can help you spot the difference between the two. Here’s a breakdown of the main symptoms:

1. High Fever

• SARS: The fever is usually high, often above 100.4°F (38°C). It starts suddenly and is often accompanied by chills.
• MERS: The fever is also high but may develop more slowly compared to SARS.

2. Cough and Breathing Difficulties

• SARS: It typically starts as a dry cough. As the illness progresses, it can lead to severe breathing difficulties.
• MERS: The cough can be severe, leading to pneumonia and acute respiratory distress.

3. Gastrointestinal Symptoms

• SARS: These are rare but can include mild diarrhea in some cases.
• MERS: Gastrointestinal issues are more common, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

4. Muscle Pain and Fatigue

• SARS: Many patients experience intense body aches and extreme fatigue.
• MERS: Muscle pain and tiredness are also present but are generally less severe than in SARS cases.

5. Kidney Failure (Specific to MERS)

• MERS: In severe cases, it can lead to kidney failure, which can be life-threatening.
• SARS: Kidney issues are not typically associated with this virus.

These symptoms show how SARS and MERS can affect the body differently. Knowing the signs can help you take quick action if needed.

How to Differentiate Between SARS and MERS Symptoms

Telling the difference between SARS and MERS symptoms can be tricky because they share many signs, like fever and cough. However, there are a few key points to watch for:

1. Speed of Onset: SARS symptoms often appear suddenly, while MERS symptoms may develop more slowly.
2. Gastrointestinal Issues: MERS is more likely to cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea compared to SARS.
3. Kidney Problems: Kidney failure is a severe complication in MERS but is not seen in SARS patients.

Importance of Medical Testing

While these differences can provide clues, the only way to accurately diagnose SARS or MERS is through medical testing. If you or someone you know shows symptoms, seek medical attention promptly for proper testing and care.

Precautions and Safety Tips

Protecting yourself from SARS and MERS is all about good hygiene and smart habits. Here are some easy ways to reduce the risk of infection:

1. Wash Your Hands: Clean your hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap isn’t available, use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
2. Wear Masks in Crowded Places: In busy or closed spaces, wearing a mask helps reduce exposure to respiratory droplets that may carry the virus.
3. Avoid Close Contact: Stay away from people who are sick, especially if they have symptoms like coughing or fever.
4. Disinfect Surfaces: Clean frequently-touched items, like doorknobs and mobile phones, to kill any lingering viruses.
5. Stay Informed and Vaccinated: Keep up with health updates and get vaccinated if a vaccine is available.

These simple steps can go a long way in keeping you and your loved ones safe.

Specific Precautions for MERS:

1. Avoid Contact with Camels: MERS is believed to be transmitted from camels to humans. Avoid contact with camels and camel products, especially in regions where MERS is prevalent.
2. Travel Precautions: If traveling to areas where MERS is common, take extra precautions such as avoiding markets and places where camels are present.

Specific Precautions for SARS:

1. Isolation and Quarantine: Follow public health guidelines for isolation and quarantine if there is an outbreak of SARS in your area.
2. Healthcare Settings: Ensure that healthcare facilities follow strict infection control measures to prevent the spread of SARS.

How do SARS and MERS spread?

SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome) Spread:

SARS primarily spreads through:

1. Respiratory Droplets: When an infected person coughs or sneezes, the virus can be carried in droplets and inhaled by others nearby.
2. Close Contact: Direct physical contact with an infected person, such as hugging or shaking hands, can transmit the virus.
3. Surface Contamination: Touching surfaces or objects contaminated with the virus and then touching your face (eyes, nose, or mouth) can lead to infection.

MERS (Middle East Respiratory Syndrome) Spread:

MERS primarily spreads through:

1. Respiratory Droplets: Similar to SARS, MERS can spread through droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
2. Close Contact: Direct contact with an infected person can transmit the virus.
3. Zoonotic Transmission: MERS is believed to spread from camels to humans. Close contact with camels or consumption of raw camel products can lead to infection.
4. Healthcare Settings: MERS can also spread within healthcare facilities where infection control measures may not be adequately followed.

Final Thought

SARS and MERS share some symptoms, like fever and breathing difficulties, but they also have important differences. Knowing these signs can help you act fast if needed. SARS often causes high fever and muscle pain, while MERS is more likely to lead to severe pneumonia and even kidney failure.

Staying informed is your first line of defense. If you or someone close to you shows symptoms, don’t wait seek medical advice right away. Also, follow preventive measures like good hygiene and wearing masks in crowded places.