Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS)

SARS first appeared as a new disease in Southern China in November 2002, and then over the next few months spread to various countries around the world, including Hong Kong, Taiwan, Canada, Singapore and Vietnam. 

Aotearoa New Zealand reported 1 probable SARS case in April 2003, with no further cases since then. 

The SARS outbreak was declared over in July 2003. More than 8000 cases and 774 deaths were recorded. There are currently no known SARS-affected regions worldwide. However, global surveillance continues by the World Health Organization and other international agencies.

SARS was caused by infection with a specific strain of the coronavirus. Coronaviruses are a family of viruses that usually cause mild respiratory illnesses like the common cold. In rare cases, coronaviruses can mutate and cause serious outbreaks like SARS. 

SARS-CoV-2 is the name of the virus that causes COVID-19 which is a different virus.

The main source of SARS transmission is through close contact with infected individuals. This can be through:

• direct contact with the person, their bodily fluids or mucus
• inhaling droplets in the air after an infected person has coughed or sneezed
• touching objects or surfaces contaminated with infectious droplets (and then touching your nose, mouth or eyes).

Image credit: Canva

In general, SARS is a flu-like illness that usually starts with a fever greater than 38°C that's often accompanied by tiredness, body aches and chills. Other symptoms include:

• headaches
• an overall feeling of discomfort
• diarrhoea (runny poo)
• mild respiratory symptoms
• after 2 to 7 days, a dry cough and trouble breathing.

While most people with SARS were unwell with an illness resembling the flu, and then recovered completely, some developed pneumonia (lung infection), which could be fatal. Most deaths occurred in older individuals with pre-existing medical conditions.

There have been no reports of SARS anywhere in the world since 2004. Even in the absence of a SARS outbreak, it's still a good idea to consult a doctor when you come back from overseas if you get a fever, respiratory tract symptoms and/or diarrhoea. You may have contracted some other illness such as COVID-19 that requires attention, including testing. Read more about becoming ill after travel.

Phone first

As many illnesses can be infectious, phone your doctor’s rooms before going in and tell them your symptoms. Be sure to explain that you have recently been overseas. This allows them to take precautions on your arrival.

You can also phone Healthline free (within Aotearoa New Zealand) on 0800 611 116 for advice. Calls are answered by registered nurses or other health professionals.

There is no specific treatment for SARS. This is in contrast to COVID-19 which has effective anti-viral therapies and effective vaccines to protect you against this particular infection. The best thing you can do is rest at home until you feel better. Stay home from work or school and away from other people while you're unwell. People with severe infection usually require admission to hospital for treatment. 

There is currently no vaccine to protect against SARS. However, there have been no reports of SARS anywhere in the world since 2004. Preventive measures against SARS are similar to those you would use to avoid getting or spreading COVID-19, influenza or the common cold. This involves general hygiene measures, such as:

• regular hand washing
• frequent disinfecting of surfaces
• covering coughs and sneezes
• wearing a face mask
• avoiding close contact with infected people.

If SARS re-emerged, specific advice and travel information would be issued by Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora or other agencies.