The study examined the mental health status of individuals isolated due to contact with Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) patients in South Korea during the 2015 epidemic. A total of 1,692 individuals were included in the study, with 1,656 not diagnosed with MERS. Anxiety symptoms were reported in 7.6% during isolation and 3.0% four to six months after release. Anger was present in 16.6% during isolation and 6.4% four to six months after release. Risk factors for anxiety and anger included MERS-related symptoms during isolation, inadequate supplies, social networking activities, history of psychiatric illness, and financial loss. The study concluded that mental health support, accurate information, and appropriate supplies could help prevent mental health issues after isolation. The study highlights the importance of mental health care for individuals isolated due to infectious diseases, as they may experience anxiety and anger even months after release. The findings suggest that early intervention and support are crucial to prevent long-term mental health problems.The study examined the mental health status of individuals isolated due to contact with Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) patients in South Korea during the 2015 epidemic. A total of 1,692 individuals were included in the study, with 1,656 not diagnosed with MERS. Anxiety symptoms were reported in 7.6% during isolation and 3.0% four to six months after release. Anger was present in 16.6% during isolation and 6.4% four to six months after release. Risk factors for anxiety and anger included MERS-related symptoms during isolation, inadequate supplies, social networking activities, history of psychiatric illness, and financial loss. The study concluded that mental health support, accurate information, and appropriate supplies could help prevent mental health issues after isolation. The study highlights the importance of mental health care for individuals isolated due to infectious diseases, as they may experience anxiety and anger even months after release. The findings suggest that early intervention and support are crucial to prevent long-term mental health problems.