SARS Traveller Alert:

On the 15th March 2003 the World Health Organization issued an emergency travel advisory following more than 150 reports of a new respiratory disease which has been named SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome).

During this outbreak thousands of cases were reported across the globe with a large number resulting in death (725 deaths in 28 countries as reported by Promed on May 27th 2003).

It is believed this "flu like" illness began in South East Asia with early reports from China, Vietnam and Hong Kong. Within a very short period of time the disease spread across the globe. The WHO believes the disease is "a worldwide threat" which could result in further outbreaks.

What is SARS?

Travellers going to areas where SARS is potentially endemic should be aware of the symptoms of SARS. SARS causes an atypical pneumonia - this includes a high fever (>38'C), one or more respiratory symptoms such as a cough, or breathing difficulties developing 2-10 days after exposure (although some reports suggest this can be up to 16 days)

AND

Either, has close contact (i.e. caring for those with the illness, living with a person with the illness or sharing respiratory secretions or body fluids) with a person who has had SARS; or has recently travelled (within 10 days) to an area reporting cases of SARS. Other symptoms can include headache, muscle stiffness, loss of appetite, malaise, confusion, rash and diarrhoea.

If a person experiences these symptoms and has been in the above circumstances they should seek medical attention - highlighting their recent travel, a face mask should be used to prevent spread at this time. No person experiencing these symptoms should travel until they are fully recovered.

What have the Experts Discovered?

Experts now know that the virus is a coronovirus. A coronovirus is usually responsible for the common cold causing respiratory epidemics. The virus is able to survive for 1-2 days at room temperature. It can also survive for up to 4 days in human faeces. The virus is currently believed to no longer be effective when it comes up against normal disinfectants.

Despite reports of diagnostic kits being available - these have not been proven reliable and have not as yet undergone testing to prove reliability.

Experts believe that while it is possible that this disease is spread through the air, that is when an infected person with a fever coughs and sneezes, it is now believed to be rare - it should be remembered that we HAVE NOT seen large numbers infected on flights.

Experts believe that the virus is able to survive on frequently touched surfaces such as utensils and railings. Normal washing and cleaning are usually enough to avoid spread of the virus through this way.

The death rate for those contracting SARS is currently around 10% with most deaths occurring in those people with pre-existing medical conditions and those over 60 years of age.

Medical experts in Toronto believe that the medication ASPIRIN used to treat fever in the early stages of SARS could make the situation worse, and have recommended that anyone showing signs of the disease should NOT use this medication.

If you have to Travel...

If you have essential travel to this area, the following precautions are advised:

Ensure frequent hand washing and personal hygiene is adhered to - carry with you antibacterial wipes for emergencies - especially when using public bathrooms.

In order to avoid infection, if you are forced to travel in close contact (within one metre) with a person with suspected symptoms, use a face mask or handkerchief over your mouth and nose.

Maintain good communication with those back at home using e-mail and telephone and keep up to date with travel advisories from an up to date source - these should be checked prior to travel.

If at any time you feel ill seek medical attention - make sure your travel insurance is adequate prior to travel. To prevent spread of the disease use a face mask in crowded areas and on public transport. If you need medical attention PLEASE alert medical staff if you have travelled to a SARS infected area within the last 10 days.

Avoid crowded places such as sports events and conferences as well as travel on public transport - if this is essential make use of a face mask and be aware of personal hygiene and washing of hands.

It should also be remembered that anyone trying to take a flight in an infected country who is suffering from a respiratory problem could be refused access to the flight - if you have an existing condition make sure you have a letter from your doctor!

Before travelling overseas to certain countries during the "flu" season it is advisable to discuss flu vaccination with your health advisor.

Further Information and Resources:

WHO - Update and Travel Advisory
CDC
UK Response to SARS
Medaire Health and Safety Advice related to SARS
ProMed - Updates on the global situation area