WHO EPI-WIN Webinar: Understanding and Implementing WHO's MERS-CoV Investigation Protocols
Date: 7. Okt. 2024 01:00 PM in Amsterdam, Berlin, Rom, Stockholm, Wien
Introduction:
Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV), first identified in 2012, is an emerging zoonotic virus with significant epidemic and pandemic potential. Dromedary camels have been identified as the animal reservoir for MERS-CoV. The emergence of this new virus has highlighted the need to understand its transmission patterns, severity, clinical features, and risk factors for infection. To address these critical unknowns, the World Health Organization (WHO) has developed several MERS-CoV investigation protocols. The data collected through these protocols will be essential to refine recommendations for case definitions and surveillance, characterize key epidemiological features of MERS-CoV, understand the geographical extent of its circulation in humans and camels, its severity, the spectrum of human disease, and its impact on communities. The findings will also guide the application of countermeasures such as case isolation and contact tracing.
Objective:
• Provide a comprehensive understanding of the WHO MERS-CoV investigation protocols, published in 2024 as part of WHO’s Investigations and Studies (Unity Studies).
• Equip participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to implement these protocols effectively in their respective countries.
• Enhance global preparedness and response strategies.
Speakers:
- Dr. Maria Van Kerkhove, WHO
- Dr. Sophie von Dobschuetz
- Dr. Anna Funk
- Dr. Elmoubasher, MOPH Qatar
- Dr.Ezzuddin Ahmad Okmi– PHA KSA
