What does fever feel like with MERS coronavirus infection?

A person may alternate between shivering and feeling overheated, with sweating, headache, muscle aches, or a dry mouth. MERS can also involve cough, shortness of breath, chest discomfort, or digestive symptoms such as vomiting or diarrhoea. Symptoms can be more serious in people with underlying health problems, so a fever needs to be considered alongside breathing and general condition.

Fever does not identify its cause by sensation alone. Tell a healthcare professional about recent travel, contact with a suspected case, healthcare exposure, animal contact, and the timing of symptoms. Call before visiting so infection-control arrangements can be made.

Rest, drink small amounts regularly if you can swallow comfortably, and use a thermometer to record changes. Stay away from others as much as practical, improve ventilation, and use a mask if you must share a space. Do not share cups, towels, or utensils. Contact a healthcare service promptly for personalised advice rather than attending a waiting room without notice.

Get urgent help for difficulty breathing, bluish or grey lips, chest pain, confusion, unusual difficulty waking, fainting, or inability to keep fluids down. Seek prompt assessment if fever is accompanied by a worsening cough or increasing weakness. A person with significant long-term medical conditions should contact a clinician early in the illness, even if the initial fever feels manageable.

Ask whether your exposure history changes the testing plan, how to monitor breathing at home, how long to limit contact with others, and which medicines are appropriate with your existing conditions.