We determined the presence of neutralizing antibodies to Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus in persons in Qatar with and without dromedary contact. Antibodies were only detected in those with contact, suggesting dromedary exposure as a risk factor for infection. Findings also showed evidence for substantial underestimation of the infection in populations at risk in Qatar.

doi.org/10.3201/eid2108.150481, hdl.handle.net/1765/87403
Emerging Infectious Diseases - (Open Access)
Erasmus MC: University Medical Center Rotterdam

Reusken, C., Farag, E., Haagmans, B., Mohran, K. A., Godeke, G.-J., Raj, S., … Koopmans, M., D.V.M. (2015). Occupational exposure to dromedaries and risk for MERS-CoV infection, Qatar, 2013–2014. Emerging Infectious Diseases - (Open Access), 21(8), 1422–1425. doi:10.3201/eid2108.150481