SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome)
Information for International Students

WHAT IS SARS?

SARS is a respiratory illness of unknown etiology which must meet the following criteria to be considered a suspected case:

  • Measured temperature greater than 100.4 degrees F (38 degrees C)

  • One or more clinical findings of respiratory illness such as cough, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, x-ray findings of pneumonia, or respiratory distress, AND

  • TRAVEL within 10 days of onset of symptoms to an area with documented or suspected community transmission OR close contact within 10 days of onset of symptoms with a person suspected of having SARS.

HOW SARS SPREADS:

The primary way SARS appears to spread is by close person-to-person contact. Most cases have involved people who cared for or live with someone with SARS. SARS may spread through respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing.

WHAT DO I DO IF I SUSPECT I MIGHT HAVE SARS?

  • Limit your exposure to other people

  • Call the Student Health Center at 784-6598 for a pre-screening over the phone. DO NOT WALK-IN and wait in the reception area; DO CALL to discuss your situation and arrange for an intake process that will limit exposure to other people.

  • IF symptoms are suspicious after pre-screening, you will be referred to a Reno area emergency room for appropriate testing. If you are suspected of having SARS, you may be isolated for a period of time to prevent the spread of the illness.

HOW CAN I PROTECT MYSELF FROM SARS?

  • Whether it is SARS, a cold, or the flu, one of the most important ways to avoid the spread of disease is to wash your hands thoroughly and frequently.

  • Avoid contact with people who have just returned from a SARS infected area.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

To find out more about SARS and the list of high risk countries, check the following web sites:

Created by the OISS, 5/12/2003; source: UNR emergency information; re: SARS