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CDC updates certain MERS-related guidelines

The CDC has updated its guidance for the public, clinicians and public health authorities regarding the Middle East respiratory syndrome, or MERS, coronavirus, specifically relating to patient evaluation, case definitions, travel recommendations and infection control.

According to the report in Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, the CDC said testing for MERS and other respiratory illnesses can be conducted simultaneously. In addition, MERS testing should not be ruled out if tests are positive for another respiratory pathogen. A related change is the definition of a probably case, so that patients with another confirmed etiology are not excluded as probable cases.

Confirmatory laboratory testing for MERS now requires a positive polymerase chain reaction of two specific genomic targets or a single positive target with sequencing of a second.

The CDC has not issued any travel restrictions, but urges US travelers to the Arabian Peninsula to protect themselves from all diseases, including MERS, by washing their hands often and avoiding contact with ill people.

Lastly, the CDC as authorized federal isolation and quarantine for MERS under Executive Order 13295. Those with confirmed or probable MERS should remain in isolation and may be subject to additional public health measures.