Page updated 30 April 2007
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS)
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) is a sever, potentially fatal respiratory disease caused by SARS coronavirus (SARS CoV). The infection is characterised by a rapid onset of high fever followed a few days later by a cough, and may progress to respiratory failure and ARDS. It was first recognised in Guangdong Province in China in November 2002, and spread worldwide before being contained by 5 July 2003. Between July 2003 and My 2004, four small and rapidly-contained outbreaks of SARS were reported, three of which appear to have been linked to laboratory releases of SARS-CoV. The source of the fourth outbreak remains unclear, although epidemiological investigations focused on an animal source. The possibility of SARS re-emergence remains and there is a need for continuing vigilance. SARS is highly infectious and is spread by respiratory secretions. Adhering to strict infection control procedures can control spread within hospitals.
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