Symptoms Of Sars O High Fever example essay topic

What is SARS? Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) is a respiratory illness that has recently been reported in Asia, North America, and Europe. Symptoms of SARS. o High Fever greater than 38^0 C. o One or more respiratory symptoms including coughing, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing and one or more close contact within 10 days of onset of symptoms, with a person who has been diagnosed with SARS. o History of travel within 10 days of onset of symptoms to an area in which there are reported cases of transmission of SARS. o Close contact means having cared for, having lived with or having had direct contact with respiratory secretions and body fluids of a person with SARS. Precautionary Measures. Some simple measures can be taken to reduce personal risk in locations where SARS has occurred. These revolve around minimising exposure to SARS suspects and using personal hygiene measures.

The actions listed below are not designed to be prescriptive but just give advice to people in the potential areas where precautions can be taken. Avoiding interaction with people that show symptoms like coughing use stairs not elevators and use private transport other that public transport. The wearing of basic surgical masks will provide some protection although people should not be given a false sense of security by using these alone without taking additional precautions. Basic hygiene is essential in reducing the risk of virus transmission. Washing hands before eating is recommended. Smokers should wash their hands before smoking as contaminants on the hand are easily transferred to the mouth whilst smoking.

The illness usually begins with a fever, greater than 38^0 C. The fever is sometimes related with chills or other symptoms, including headache, general feeling of discomfort and body aches. After 2 to 7 days, SARS patients may develop a dry, non-productive coughs that might be accompanied by or progresses to the point where in short supply of oxygen is getting to the blood. Is there a test for SARS? Several new laboratory tests can be used to detect the SARS. Serologic testing for coronavirus can be performed by using indirect fluorescent antibody or enzyme. What medical treatment is recommended for patients with SARS?

Currently the recommendation for patients with SARS receive the same treatment that would be used for any patient with serious community acquired atypical pneumonia. If I were exposed to SARS, how long would it take for me to become sick? The incubation period for SARS is typically 2 to 7 days, on the other hand, isolated reports have suggested and incubation period as long as 10 days. The illness usually begins with a fever 38^0 C (see sings and symptoms above) What should I do if I think I have SARS? If you are ill with a fever greater than 38^0 C that is accompanied by a cough or difficulty breathing or that progress to a cough and / or difficulty breathing, you should consult a health care provider. To help your health care provider make diagnosis, tell him or her about any recent travel to regions where cases of SARS have been reported and whether you were in contact with someone who had these symptoms.

Death from SARS? As of April 23, 2003, a total of 251 SARS related deaths, or 5.9% of all cases of SARS, had been reported worldwide. Most cases of SARS have been reported from China. In addition. SARS cases have been reported from more than 20 countries. Measures to control the spread of SARS continue to be used in countries worldwide so that the outbreak can be contained.

New information hotline established. The Commonwealth Department of Health and Ageing has established a national information phone line for enquires from the public. The phone line will be staffed seven days a week from 8: 30 am to 8 pm EST. Call 1800 004 599

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