Should you worry about SARS?
New reports about SARS crops up every day, it seems. Find out what you need to know both in the UK and when travelling, to protect yourself and your family.
- What is SARS?
- SARS in the UK
- SARS information for travellers
- The symptoms of SARS
- How SARS spreads
- What if I think I have SARS?
- How is SARS treated?
What is SARS?
Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) is a respiratory illness that has recently been reported in Asia, North America and Europe. While there have been individual cases in several countries, the areas officially affected are Canada, Singapore, China and Viet Nam. This means a local chain of transmission is occurring or has occurred in these areas. For additional information, visit the World Health Organisation's (WHO) SARS website.
First recognized in late February 2003, SARS has spread along international air routes. As of 7 May, 6,903 cases had been reported from 29 countries on five continents, and WHO is urging precautionary measures in an effort to reduce the disease's impact.
SARS in the UK
The number of people affected in the UK has been very low. As of 8 May 2003, 6 confirmed cases of SARS have occurred in the UK, and all those affected have recovered. WHO updates the official numbers of SARS cases every weekday, broken down by country.
SARS information for travellers
WHO issues travel advisories to protect international public health and to reduce opportunities for the virus to spread. Right now, it advises people to consider postponing all but essential travel to several areas of China: Beijing, Hong Kong, Guangdong, Inner Mongolia, Shanxi, Taipei and Tianjin. The travel advisory for Toronto was lifted on 30 April 2003. Toronto continues to be classified as an affected area, with airport screenings recommended.
WHO has recommended screening for air passengers departing from affected areas on flights to other countries. The screening measures include an interview to detect illness or symptoms that might indicate a SARS infection.
If you do travel to affected areas, the U.S.-based Centers for Disease Control recommends the following measures:
Before you leave:
-
Assemble a travel health kit containing basic first aid and medical supplies, including a thermometer, household disinfectant, surgical masks and disposable gloves (for use if you or someone you are travelling with becomes ill with SARS), and alcohol-based hand rubs for hand hygiene
Educate yourself about SARS, its symptoms and mode of transmission
Make sure your shots are up to date. See your doctor at least 4 to 6 weeks before travel to get any additional shots or information
Check your health insurance plan or get additional insurance that covers medical evacuation in the event of illness
Identify in-country health-care resources in advance of your trip
While you are in an area with SARS, wash your hands frequently and avoid close contact with large numbers of people when possible.
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Created: 20/05/2003 Updated: 09/08/2006
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