CDC alert

Nevada RNformation, May-Jul 2003

Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Update - Virus Suspected as Causative Agent-Health Care Workers at Risk for Infection

The World Health Organization (WHO) reported that scientists at the University of Hong Kong have isolated a virus as the causative agent for Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS). Canadian researchers released findings suggesting that the metapneumovirus, a member of the Paranmyoviridae family, is responsible for SARS, though conclusive determinations have yet to be made. Work on determining a diagnostic test that can be used clinically is currently underway.

SARS is characterized by influenza-like symptoms such as fever, myalgias, headache, sore throat, dry cough, shortness of breath, or difficulty breathing. Some cases have resulted in hypoxia, pneumonia, acute respiratory distress, and death. Transmission is believed to occur by exposure to large droplet aerosols through close, direct contact with persons suffering from SARS.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has continued its investigation of the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) outbreak internationally. To date, 37,suspected cases in the United States are currently being investigated and 386 (reported suspected and probable) cases world-wide, including 11 deaths, have been documented. Most of the cases have been reported in Hong Kong, China, Singapore, and Vietnam. Over the weekend, an interim travel advisory has been issued by the CDC for Hong Kong and the Guangdong Province of China as well as for Hanoi, Vietnam. The threat of global exposure is possible secondary to travel or contact with individuals that have recently traveled to these areas.

Healthcare workers have been identified as cases and remain a primary at-risk group secondary to caring and treating patients with SARS. The use of appropriate infection control measures such as Airborne and Contact Precautions are strongly urged for individuals presenting with the listed symptoms. Clinicians are urged to report suspected cases to their local or state health departments.

For additional information visit:

CDC website - www.cdc.gov/ncidod/sars

WHO website -- www.who.int/en