Information From Your Health Care Provider

SEVERE ACUTE RESPIRATORY SYNDROME

Basic information

description

Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) is a type of respiratory illness. Respiratory refers to the lungs and breathing. In 2003, SARS was first diagnosed in Asia and then spread to other countries, including the United States.

FREQUENT SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

Fever higher than 100.4°F (38.0°C). The fever starts 2 to 7 days after being infected.
May include headache, an overall feeling of discomfort, and body aches.
Some people also have mild breathing problems.
After 2 to 7 days, patients may develop a dry cough and have more trouble breathing.

causes

The cause is a form of the coronavirus. It is one of a family of viruses that in humans usually cause mild infections like common colds. How the new type came into being is unknown.
SARS germs spread by close, person-to-person contact. A cough or sneeze can spread the germs into the nearby air and be breathed in by someone. They are also spread if you touch the skin of an infected person or objects that have the germs on them, and then touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. SARS may spread more broadly in the air or by other ways that are not now known. Also unknown is the time period that an infected person can spread germs to others.

risk increases with

Travel to an area where the infection is present.
Close contact with an infected person.

PREVENTIVE MEASURES

Check for any travel precautions for the area you plan to visit. The Centers for Disease Control & Prevention has updated information about travelers' health; website: www.cdc.gov or toll free hotline (877) 394-8747.
If you are in an area where this infection is present, wash your hands often or use alcohol-based hand wipes. Avoid crowds if possible.
Wearing a facemask or other protective device may be helpful.

expected outcomes

Outcome varies depending on the severity of the symptoms. Most people will recover from the infection.

possible complications

Severe breathing problems that may lead to death.
Survivors may have long term medical and psychological problems. These include bone problems (such as osteoporosis) and depression.

diagnosis & treatment

general measures

The symptoms for SARS are like those for other viral illnesses, such as cold and flu. If you have been exposed to SARS or have recently been traveling, and symptoms occur, seek medical help right away. Advise any health care provider in advance of your visit about the SARS exposure. Arrangements can be made, as needed, to prevent the spread of germs to others.
Your health care provider will do a physical exam and have blood and urine studies done. An x-ray and other medical tests may be needed. Specific tests to diagnose SARS are still being developed.
Once a SARS infection is diagnosed, hospital treatment is needed. This may be in an intensive care unit.
Treatment is aimed at assistance with the breathing problems. Oxygen is provided through a facemask. Some patients require breathing support with a ventilator (a device to help the lungs).
Research is ongoing to develop a rapid diagnostic test, effective drug therapies, and a vaccine for the disease.

medications

Drugs are not available to cure the infection. Drugs to treat the symptoms will be given while in the hospital.

activity

Resume normal activities slowly once symptoms improve.

diet

May require feeding through a vein (IV) while in the hospital. Then return to a regular diet with recovery.

notify our office if

You or a family member has symptoms of SARS. You should seek emergency care. Be sure to advise any health care providers in advance of your visit about the SARS exposure.