Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome

Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) is a viral disease that was first identified in 2002 in Guangdong, China. It is caused by the SARS coronavirus (SARS-CoV), a member of the coronavirus family.

Symptoms and Transmission

The symptoms of SARS include fever, cough, and severe shortness of breath. These symptoms can progress to pneumonia and respiratory failure. SARS is transmitted through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It can also spread if a person touches a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touches their mouth, nose, or eyes.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis of SARS is based on the patient's symptoms, exposure history, and laboratory testing. Chest X-ray and CT scan may show abnormalities in the lungs. Laboratory tests include PCR and serology tests. There is currently no specific treatment for SARS. Management involves supportive care, including oxygen therapy, antibiotics, and corticosteroids.

Prevention and Control

Prevention measures include hand hygiene, wearing a mask, and social distancing. Control measures include quarantine of suspected cases, contact tracing, and disinfection of contaminated surfaces.

Impact

The 2002-2004 SARS outbreak resulted in over 8,000 cases and 774 deaths in 17 countries. The economic impact was significant, with an estimated global cost of $40 billion.

See Also

• Middle East Respiratory Syndrome
• COVID-19 pandemic
• Zoonosis

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