What is SARS?

Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) is a viral respiratory illness caused by a coronavirus, called SARS-associated coronavirus (SARS-CoV). SARS was recognized as global threat in March, 2003, after first appearing in Southern China in November 2002, it was first reported in Asia in February 2003.

What are the symptoms of SARS?

In general, SARS begins with a high fever (temp >100.4°F). Other symptoms may include headache, and overall feeling of discomfort, and body aches. Some people also have mild respiratory symptoms at the outset. About 10% to 20% of patients have diarrhea. After 2 to 7 days, SARS patients may develop a dry cough. Most patients develop pneumonia.

How is SARS spread?

Then main way SARS is spread seems to be by close person-to-person contact. The virus that causes the disease is thought to be transmitted most readily by respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus can also be spread when a person touches a surface or object contaminated with infectious droplets and then touches his or her mouth, nose, or eye(s). In addition, it is possible that the SARS virus might spread more broadly through the air or by other ways that are not now known.

What does close contact mean?

Close context means having cared for or lived with someone with SARS or having direct contact with respiratory secretions or body fluids of a patient with SARS. Examples of close contact include kissing or hugging, sharing eating or drinking utensils, talking to someone within 3 feet, and touching someone directly.

If I were exposed to SARS-CoV, how long would it take for me to become sick?

The time between exposure to SARS-CoV and the onset of symptoms is called the “incubation period.” The incubation period for SARS is typically 2 to 7 days, although is some cases may be as long as 10-14 days.

How long is a person with SARS contagious?

Available information suggests that persons with SARS are most likely to be contagious only when they have symptoms, such as fever or cough. Patients are most contagious during the second week of illness. However, as a precaution against spreading the disease, CDC recommends that persons with SARS limit their interactions outside the home until 10 days after their fever has gone away and their respiratory symptoms have gotten better.

What medical treatment is recommended for patients with SARS?

CDC recommends that patients with SARS receive the same treatment that would be used for a patient with any serious community-acquired a typical pneumonia. SARS-CoV is being tested against various antiviral drugs to see if an effective treatment can be found.

Source: CDC (Center for Disease Control and Prevention)

Updated: December 28, 2004