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Information About Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) (Adapted from CDC Public Fact Sheet - April 2, 2003)
A NEW DISEASE CALLED SARS
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), World Health Organization (WHO), and health officials from nations around the world are investigating a new disease called severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS). The disease was first reported among people in Guangdong Province (China), Hanoi (Vietnam), and Hong Kong. It has since spread to other countries. As of April 1, more than 70 cases of SARS had been reported in the United States. This fact sheet describes the disease and important guidelines for preventing the spread of SARS.
SYMPTOMS OF SARS
In general, SARS begins with a fever greater than 100.4°F [>38.0°C]. Other symptoms may include headache, an overall feeling of discomfort, and body aches. Some people also experience mild respiratory symptoms. After 2 to 7 days, SARS patients may develop a dry cough and have trouble breathing.
HOW SARS SPREADS
Public health experts think that SARS is spread by close contact between people. SARS is most likely spread when someone sick with the disease coughs droplets into the air and someone else breathes them in. It is possible that SARS also can spread more broadly through the air or from touching objects that have become contaminated.
WHO IS AT RISK FOR SARS
Cases of SARS continue to be reported mainly among people who have had direct close contact with an infected person, such as those sharing a household with a SARS patient and health care workers who did not use infection control procedures while taking care of a SARS patient. In the United States, there is no indication of community spread at this time. CDC and state and local health officials continue to monitor this situation very closely.
WHAT YOU SHOULD DO TO PROTECT YOURSELF
The most important way of protecting yourself from respiratory infections is prevention. Washing your hands frequently with soap and hot water or using an alcohol-based handwash is always an important tool in controlling the spread of disease.
If you get sick with the symptoms described above and have been in close contact with someone who might have SARS, see your health care provider.
If you have any questions please call Clallam County Health and Human Services at (360) 417-2439 or 417-2542. |
