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What is SARS?
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Severe acute respiratory
syndrome, better known as SARS, is a viral illness caused by the
SARS-associated coronavirus.
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Where is SARS found?
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In 2003, a global
outbreak of SARS occurred, infecting more than 8,000 people in North
America, South America, Asia and Europe. The outbreak originated in Asia
and 774 people lost their lives due to the illness. Only eight people in
the United States were infected with the illness during the outbreak.
There have been no reported cases in the world since 2004.
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What are the symptoms of
SARS?
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The symptoms of SARS
include:
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High fever
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Headache
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General discomfort
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Body aches
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Diarrhea
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Dry cough
Most people who become
infected develop pneumonia as a result of the illness.
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How is SARS spread?
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SARS is spread through direct person-to-person contact, through the
cough or sneeze of an infected person. It can also be spread by a person
touching a surface or object that is contaminated with the virus and
then touching his or hers eyes, mouth or nose. It is possible that the
illness may be spread more broadly through the air.
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How can I keep from
getting SARS?
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The most effective way
to avoid getting SARS is to avoid close contact with an infected person,
wash hands often and avoid touching the eyes, nose and mouth.
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If I’ve been exposed to
SARS, how long will it take for symptoms to develop?
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The initial symptoms of
SARS can occur between two and seven days after exposure.
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What treatments are
available for SARS? How serious is the disease?
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Because of the high rate of pneumonia associated with SARS, health
professionals recommend treatment similar to that given to those with
severe pneumonia, which may include antibiotics, rest and fluids.
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Where can I get more
information on SARS?
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For more information
online, you can visit the Centers for Disease Control at
http://www.cdc.gov/sars/about/fs-SARS.html
Or, for more
information, please call the Health Department at 859.363.2070.
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