Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS): epidemiology, diagnosis and management

SARS is a serious respiratory illness that frequently runs a rapidly progressive downhill course. In just 6 weeks it has spread to all continents of the globe. At the time of writing more than 7000 cases have been reported worldwide and over 500 have died. The primary mode of transmission appears to be by droplets. Good supportive care and the judicious use of ribavirin and steroids result in recovery in over 90% of patients, but randomised controlled trials are needed to define the roles of these treatments. Success in controlling the disease relies on early identification of suspect cases, proper isolation, and meticulous infection control measures. Development of sensitive and specific rapid diagnostic tests is underway.