13.1: Viral Infections of the Respiratory Tract
SARS and MERS
Viral Respiratory Diseases Causing Skin Rashes
Measles and rubella (German measles) are two important viral diseases often associated with skin rashes. However, their symptoms are systemic, and because their portal of entry is the respiratory tract, they can be considered respiratory infections.
Measles (Rubeola)
Rubella (German Measles)
Key Concepts and Summary
- SARS and MERS are acute respiratory infections caused by coronaviruses, and both appear to originate in animals. SARS has not been seen in the human population since 2004 but had a high mortality rate during its outbreak. MERS also has a high mortality rate and continues to appear in human populations.
- Measles and rubella are highly contagious, systemic infections that gain entry through the respiratory system and cause rashes and fevers. Vaccines are available for both. Measles is the most severe and is responsible for significant mortality around the world.