SARS: Severe Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome - Here’s What We Know

We don’t know much about the new epidemic that has affected Asia. But with the mounting of new cases daily, and in addition to the discovery of cases in the United States, it is important that everyone take this disease seriously.

What does SARS stand for?

SARS stands for Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome. It has accounted at the time of this writing over 2000 cases with over 80 deaths. The virus has not yet been identified. No one has isolated the virus but a worldwide investigation by the top laboratories is currently on the way. There are over 100 cases in the United States that are thought to be attributed to SARS.

Where did it come from?

It was thought to originate in the GuangDong province in southern China. The scientist who discovered the disease, Dr. Carlo Urbani, himself succumbed to the disease in March 2003.

What are the symptoms of SARS?

It is similar to someone who has the flu. Fevers, with a temperature over 100.5 degrees, and chills, muscle stiffness, body aches, fatigue, loss of appetite and headaches. After three to seven days, breathing becomes more difficult, with a strong likelihood a respirator will be needed to help the stricken breathe. It has affected mostly adults age 20 to 60 years old.

How is SARS spread?

Because the virus has not been identified, it has not been known. However, people in close contact and exchange of respiratory secretions appears to be the designated way it gets spread. The leading candidate that is responsible for SARS are a group known as the coronaviruses, viruses that are responsible for the common cold. The chlamydia virus has also been identified in patients, suggesting there may be more than one virus at work. The incubation period is estimated to be between 3 and 7 days.

Could this be from a bioterrorist act?

There has been no linkage to this disease as a result of chemical warfare from terrorist groups.

What about my trip to China?

Currently the CDC has issued a warning to anyone visiting China, Vietnam, Singapore, and Hong Kong. Recently cases have been seen in Toronto, Canada and has recommended restricting travel to Canada as well.

Is there a cure yet?

Sadly no, simply because we have not been able to identify the virus. Once identification takes place, the race for the cure will be a bit easier. Currently treatment of SARS include our current arsenal of medications for atypical pneumonias, such as antibiotics, antiviral medications, oxygen support, and steroid drugs. There are also diagnostic tests that are being developed using polymerase chain reactions and enzyme assays to work on identification of the virus.

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