Q. ) What is SARS ?
Ans. SARS is termed for Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome. It is an enigma since There is a very little knowledge available to the medical world about this condition as yet, as it is a disease of recent origin. The World Health organization (WHO) and The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), is an US Government recognized institute in Atlanta, have released information on SARS. SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome), an atypical pneumonia of unknown aetiology, was recognized at the end of February 2003. The WHO is co-ordinating the international investigation with the assistance of the Global Outbreak Alert and Response Network and is working closely with health authorities in the affected countries to provide epidemiological, clinical and logistical support as required. Q.) What are the Sign & Symptoms of SARS?
Ans. The main symptoms of SARS are high fever (More than 100?F), dry cough, shortness of breath or breathing difficulties.The illness begins generally with a fever, and is sometimes associated with chills or other symptoms, including headache, malaise, and body aches. Some persons also experience mild respiratory symptoms at the outset.
After 3 to 7 days, the person may develop a dry, nonproductive cough that might be accompanied by or progress to the point where insufficient oxygen is getting to the blood. In 10% to 20% of cases, patients will require mechanical ventilation.
Changes in chest X-rays indicative of pneumonia also occur. The symptoms are similar to influenza (flu) and pneumonia, typical of any virus infection.
SARS may be associated with other symptoms, including headache, muscular stiffness, loss of appetite, malaise, confusion, rash and diarrhoea. These are as
observed in some patients evaluated by CDC and the WHO.