Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS)

Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) is caused by a group of viruses known as coronaviruses. While many coronaviruses cause mild to moderate upper respiratory infections, SARS is a serious and highly contagious respiratory illness that can lead to pneumonia and respiratory failure.

The incubation period for SARS is typically 2 to 7 days, meaning symptoms may not appear immediately after exposure.

Signs and Symptoms of SARS

SARS often begins with sudden high fever and may progress rapidly. Symptoms can include:

Fever
Headache
Body aches
Malaise or extreme fatigue
Diarrhea
Shortness of breath

In many cases, a dry cough develops after several days, and pneumonia may follow. Breathing difficulties are a key warning sign that requires prompt medical attention.

If a child develops difficulty breathing, this may indicate SARS or another serious respiratory infection such as pneumonia and must be assessed by a healthcare professional.

When to Seek Medical Care

A doctor should be consulted immediately if:

A child or adult develops breathing difficulty or persistent high fever
Respiratory symptoms worsen rapidly
Symptoms appear after travel to an area with known SARS cases
There has been close contact with someone suspected or confirmed to have SARS

Early medical assessment is essential to reduce complications and limit transmission.

Management and Treatment

There is no specific proven antiviral treatment for SARS. Care is primarily supportive and may include:

Oxygen therapy
Hospitalization for monitoring and respiratory support

Research into antiviral treatments continues, but supportive care remains the main approach.

Prevention and Infection Control

SARS spreads mainly through close contact, especially via respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing. It can also spread through contaminated surfaces.

Preventive measures include:

Frequent handwashing with soap and warm water
Avoiding close contact with sick individuals
Proper respiratory hygiene (covering coughs and sneezes)
Cleaning and disinfecting commonly touched surfaces

Currently, no vaccine is available to prevent SARS.

First Aid & Public Health Awareness (Important Notice)

This information is provided for educational and first aid awareness purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice or treatment. Recognizing early warning signs of respiratory distress and understanding when to seek emergency care are essential skills taught in first aid and CPR training in Canada.

St. Mark James Training, Canada’s largest 100% Canadian-owned and operated first aid and CPR training provider, equips individuals, workplaces, and caregivers with the skills needed to respond safely to respiratory emergencies and infectious illness scenarios.