March 17, 2003

The World Health Organization has notified countries that outbreaks of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) have been reported in China (including Hong Kong), Vietnam and Singapore.

SARS is an illness characterized by fever, cough, followed within a few days by shortness of breath and severe illness. Symptoms have occurred within 10 days of exposure, usually within 3-5 days. A specific infectious cause has not been identified. This appears to be a new syndrome.

The world is in a very early stage of gathering and interpreting information. Guidelines for action are being developed internationally, nationally and provincially through ongoing collaboration and coordination.

Outbreaks have been reported to include close family members and health care providers. Aside from geographic residence and travel to the areas listed above, no other risk factors have been identified at this time.

Eight "probable cases" have been reported in Canada, seven in Ontario and one in B.C. One of the Ontario cases is a physician who cared for one of the patients. Two cases from the same extended family in Ontario have died. There is no known specific prevention or treatment at this time, but it appears that general supportive therapy has been associated with recovery in most instances. Many cases may well prove to be mild and self-limited without the need for general supportive treatment.

There have been no reported cases of SARS in Manitoba. Communication to the public, primary care providers and other health care workers has been initiated and will be further enhanced and refined as international and national guidelines are clarified. Meanwhile, established practices of public health and health care will be followed.

In general, individuals should contact their physician or other primary care providers as usual for advice regarding care for fever and other respiratory symptoms. At this time the only Manitobans considered at increased risk for this syndrome include people who have traveled to the above countries since February 1^st or have been in close contact with suspected cases.

For further information Manitobans are reminded to contact Health Links at (204) 788-8200 or toll free at 1-888-315-9257 or visit the Manitoba Health Web site.

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