Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome

Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) is a viral respiratory disease caused by a strain of coronavirus known as SARS-associated coronavirus (SARS-CoV). First identified in 2003 in the Guangdong province of southern China, the disease quickly spread to other regions, leading to a global outbreak.

Etiology

SARS is caused by the coronavirus SARS-CoV. Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that can cause diseases ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases such as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) and COVID-19. The virus is thought to have an animal origin, with civet cats being identified as a potential zoonotic source.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

The symptoms of SARS are similar to those of other respiratory illnesses and include fever, malaise, muscle pain, headache, and most importantly, severe respiratory symptoms such as cough, shortness of breath, and pneumonia. Diagnosis of SARS is based on a combination of clinical criteria and laboratory tests, including PCR tests to detect the presence of the virus.

Transmission

SARS-CoV is primarily transmitted through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It can also spread by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus, and then touching the face, particularly the mouth, nose, or eyes.

Epidemiology

The 2003 outbreak of SARS affected 26 countries and resulted in more than 8,000 cases. The rapid spread of the disease highlighted the challenges of global health governance and the need for rapid response mechanisms in the face of emerging infectious diseases.

Prevention and Control

Preventive measures for SARS include hand hygiene, use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and isolation of suspected cases to prevent the spread of the virus. During the 2003 outbreak, travel advisories and screening at points of entry were also implemented to control the spread of the disease.

Impact

The SARS outbreak had significant economic and social impacts, particularly in East Asia. It disrupted travel, trade, and the workplace. The outbreak also had a lasting impact on public health policies and practices, leading to improved disease surveillance and response systems worldwide.

See Also

• Coronavirus
• Epidemic
• Pandemic
• World Health Organization