Flu Poses a Greater Threat Than MERS, According to RKI
In the ongoing battle against infectious diseases, the spotlight has been predominantly on the coronavirus. However, another virus, MERS (Middle East Respiratory Syndrome), has not been a widespread issue in Germany.
According to the Robert Koch Institute (RKI), the German national public health and disease control body, there have been only three known cases of MERS in the country to date. Two of these cases were fatal, a stark reminder of the potential severity of the virus.
Despite the expertise of renowned virologist Christian Drosten, who primarily focuses on coronaviruses, there is no specific public information about new projects or studies led by him with a distinct focus on the MERS virus as of 2025. His work remains centred on coronavirus virology and epidemiology. Current active MERS-related research, such as surveillance in camels and diagnostic test development, appears to be conducted by other groups rather than under his direct leadership.
Drosten, however, has identified MERS as a potential pandemic candidate, a warning he recently shared with magazine "Capital". This sentiment is not fully endorsed by the RKI, with its head, Lothar Wieler, stating that he cannot predict what the next pandemic virus will be.
In the meantime, Wieler emphasises the importance of reducing the spread of the flu, stating that it is "initially much more important". This sentiment is echoed by the measures taken against the coronavirus, which also provide protection against the flu. Maintaining distance, for instance, is a crucial step in preventing the spread of both viruses.
In a statement to dts Nachrichtenagentur, Wieler also reiterated that what is certain to come is the flu. This underscores the need for continued vigilance and preparation in the face of seasonal flu outbreaks.
MERS was first detected in patients in April 2012, primarily on the Arabian Peninsula. Since then, it has been a concern in various parts of the world, but in Germany, it remains a rare issue. As the global health community continues to monitor and respond to infectious diseases, the focus remains on the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, with MERS taking a back seat in Germany for now.
Read also:
- Nightly sweat episodes linked to GERD: Crucial insights explained
- Antitussives: List of Examples, Functions, Adverse Reactions, and Additional Details
- Asthma Diagnosis: Exploring FeNO Tests and Related Treatments
- Unfortunate Financial Disarray for a Family from California After an Expensive Emergency Room Visit with Their Burned Infant
