Severe acute respiratory syndrome: lessons and uncertainties

Neth J Med. 2003 Jul;61(7):235-7.

Abstract

The outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) has produced scientific and epidemiological discoveries with unprecedented speed, and this information has been spread instantaneously to the global health community through the internet. Within a few weeks, the coronavirus associated with SARS (SARS-CoV) was identified and sequenced. The source of the outbreak and the exact modes of transmission are still subjects of research. Important lessons can be learned from the SARS outbreak about both the scientific and the public health approach to emerging pathogens.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Disease Outbreaks*
  • Humans
  • International Cooperation*
  • Internet
  • Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome / diagnosis*
  • Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome / epidemiology*
  • Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome / transmission