| Disease |
SEVERE ACUTE RESPIRATORY DISTRESS SYNDROME |
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| Quotation |
“A medical chest specialist is long winded about the short winded”. |
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| Definition |
A pneumonia-like illness caused by a new corona virus that has infected many people worldwide. |
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| Prognosis |
The case fatality rate from respiratoyr failure appears to be around 4%. The elderly and those with previous respiratory dysfunction appear to do badly. The rest recover without any notable sequel. |
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| General Measures |
Bed rests until symptoms subside. No smoking Adequate fluid intake |
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| Advice to Patient |
See under ‘Prevention’ |
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| Follow Up |
Not required |
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| Prevention |
(WHO recommendations)People have been advised not to travel to infected areas, as there is No effective preventive vaccine as yet (June, 2003) For medical personnel traveling cases. To wear N95 respirators. Wash and disinfect hand frequently Wear disposable gown and gloves Wear eye protection For recovering patients for 10 days after symptoms subside, andpeole in contact with them Wash and disinfect hands frequently Wear facemasks when in close contact with others Avoid sharing household items like cutlery, towels etc Regularly cleanse sinks, toilets and countertops (Thoroughly launder and disinfect clothing and bedding) |
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| Reference From |
www.who.int/en www.cdc.gov/ncidod/sars |
