The Ministry of Health in Saudi Arabia has asked you to prepare a PowerPoint presentation indicating determinants, indicators, and measurements of Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV). Be sure to include individual characteristics as well as outside influences, and use specific examples. Compare and contrast how these determinants effect health. Your presentation should meet the following structural requirements: Purchase the answer to view it
The Determinants, Indicators, and Measurements of Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV)
Introduction
Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) is a highly infectious viral respiratory disease that was first identified in Saudi Arabia in 2012. Since then, MERS-CoV has spread to other countries in the Middle East and beyond, resulting in significant public health concerns and challenges. Understanding the determinants, indicators, and measurements of MERS-CoV is crucial for effective prevention and control strategies. This PowerPoint presentation will discuss the individual characteristics and external influences that impact the spread and transmission of MERS-CoV, highlighting specific examples and drawing comparisons to other health determinants.
I. Individual Characteristics
A. Age and Gender
1. Research has shown that older adults, particularly those with pre-existing health conditions, are more susceptible to severe MERS-CoV infection and have higher mortality rates.
2. Gender differences in MERS-CoV prevalence and outcomes have been observed, with males at a higher risk of infection and severe illness.
3. Example: A study conducted in Saudi Arabia found that the majority of MERS-CoV cases were males between the ages of 40 and 60, highlighting the vulnerability of this population group.
B. Occupation and Exposure
1. Certain occupations, such as healthcare workers and those involved in animal husbandry, are at increased risk of exposure to MERS-CoV due to close contact with infected individuals or animals.
2. Example: A cluster of MERS-CoV cases in a hospital in Saudi Arabia was linked to healthcare workers who were providing care to infected patients, emphasizing the occupational risks associated with MERS-CoV transmission.
C. Underlying Health Conditions
1. Individuals with pre-existing health conditions, such as diabetes, kidney disease, or respiratory disorders, are more prone to severe MERS-CoV infection and have higher mortality rates.
2. Example: A study conducted in the United Arab Emirates found that among MERS-CoV patients, those with diabetes had a significantly higher risk of requiring intensive care and experiencing fatal outcomes.
II. External Influences
A. Environmental Factors
1. MERS-CoV is believed to have originated from camels, and environmental factors related to camel husbandry and camel-human interactions play a significant role in transmission.
2. Example: The presence of MERS-CoV antibodies in camels in the Arabian Peninsula and Africa suggests the role of environmental factors in maintaining MERS-CoV within animal populations.
B. Socioeconomic Factors
1. Lower socioeconomic status, limited access to healthcare resources, and overcrowded living conditions can increase the risk of MERS-CoV transmission and compromise control efforts.
2. Example: MERS-CoV outbreaks in densely populated urban areas with limited healthcare infrastructure, such as Jeddah in Saudi Arabia, have been challenging to contain due to socioeconomic factors.
C. Cultural and Behavioral Factors
1. Cultural practices, such as camel racing and the consumption of camel products, can contribute to MERS-CoV transmission through direct contact with infected animals or their bodily fluids.
2. Example: The increase in MERS-CoV cases during the camel racing season in the United Arab Emirates highlights the role of cultural and behavioral factors in the spread of the virus.
III. Comparing and Contrasting Health Effects
A. Determinants of MERS-CoV vs. Other Infectious Diseases
1. While individual characteristics, such as age and underlying health conditions, play a role in the severity of various infectious diseases, the impact of these factors may be more pronounced in MERS-CoV due to its unique characteristics.
2. Example: Compared to other respiratory viruses like influenza, MERS-CoV has a higher case fatality rate among older adults and individuals with comorbidities.
B. External Influences on MERS-CoV vs. Other Infectious Diseases
1. The environmental, socioeconomic, and cultural factors that shape the transmission dynamics of MERS-CoV are distinct from those of other infectious diseases, leading to different health outcomes and control strategies.
2. Example: The role of camel-human interactions and cultural practices in MERS-CoV transmission distinguishes it from diseases like Ebola or Zika.
Conclusion
Understanding the determinants, indicators, and measurements of MERS-CoV is crucial for effective prevention and control strategies. Individual characteristics, such as age, gender, occupation, and underlying health conditions, along with external influences, such as environmental, socioeconomic, and cultural factors, shape the spread and severity of MERS-CoV. Comparing and contrasting these determinants with other infectious diseases helps highlight the unique aspects of MERS-CoV and inform public health interventions. By addressing these factors comprehensively, public health efforts can be better targeted and tailored to mitigate the impact of MERS-CoV.