FRANCAIS

March 31, 2003

 Manitoba Health and Manitoba's Regional Health Authorities continue to take a serious and aggressive approach to monitor for and be ready to respond in a safe manner to suspect or probable cases of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS). Currently, there are no reports of suspect or probable cases of SARS in Manitoba.

A comprehensive process of working with jurisdictions across the country and throughout the world is being followed.

The patient identified last week as a probable case of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome does not have SARS. Tests have determined that the patient has bacterial pneumonia. All people who were placed under quarantine as a result of their contact with this patient have been advised the quarantine has been lifted.

SARS is characterized by fever, cough, and other symptoms and signs and may progress to severe illness. Symptoms usually appear within 10 days of exposure -- usually within 3-5 days.

Potential risk of SARS for Manitobans is low. Most Manitobans are not at risk. Individuals who have recently travelled to China -- including Hong Kong and Taiwan, Vietnam and Singapore as well as to Scarborough Hospital, Grace Division or York Central Hospital in Richmond Hill in Ontario, or anyone who has had close contact with a case of SARS are advised to watch for symptoms and if any occur, seek medical advice. If possible, they should phone ahead to alert health care professionals.

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