Background

Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) is a newly emerged pathogen that appears to be caused by a virulent strain of a coronavirus. At this time, the mechanism of transmission is not clearly understood but most indications point to a droplet/contact transmission with a 2 to 10 day incubation period. Although there is a rapid onset and severe illness and death can occur, these serious complications have been limited to about 4% of confirmed cases.

SARS Symptoms

High fever of 38°C or greater associated with:

• One or more respiratory symptoms including cough, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, muscle aches and headaches and:

• Close contact, within 10 days of onset of symptoms, with a person who has been diagnosed with SARS

• History of travel, within 10 days of onset of symptoms, to an area in which there are reported foci of transmission of SARS.

Useful Guidelines for Maintaining Health

• Build up good body immunity. This means a proper diet, regular exercise and adequate rest, reducing stress and avoiding smoking

• Keep hands clean and wash hands properly

• Cover nose and mouth when sneezing or coughing

• Maintain good personal hygiene and wash hands after sneezing, coughing or cleaning the nose

• Wash hands before touching any part of your face. Avoid touching the eyes, nose and mouth with your hands after visiting public places

• Keep hands, pencils and pens out of your mouth

• Do not share towels, wash cloths, sport bottles, drinks, food or eating utensils

• Use serving utensils at meal times

• Avoid visiting crowded places with poor ventilation

• Clean shared telephones and computer keyboards often

• Use liquid soap for hand washing and disposable towel for drying hands

• Use alcohol based hand wash if soap and water is not available

• Consult your doctor promptly if respiratory symptoms and fever develop

• If you are ill, do not take public transport and cover your mouth and nose when in public