Surviving SARS

SARS - severe acute respiratory syndrome remains a possible future pandemic. It has already come close as it spread around the world in 2003. What began in China in late 2002 found its way to at least two dozen countries in just a few months.

Over 8000 people were infected in that first outbreak. And the mortality rate was about 10%.

This viral respiratory illness is caused by a coronavirus and can very deadly. There is still no cure, but vaccines are under development. Thankfully, some clinical trials are showing positive results.

To survive the next epidemic requires some vigilance, common sense, and lifestyle choices. When you hear of the next outbreak the best thing you can do is stay away from the reported locations and those who have recently traveled there.

Prior to the next pandemic (now), you should prepare your home for survival. You should have an air mask and goggles for each person, a survival kit, and your pantry stocked with food and water for 3 days. If there is an outbreak you should then stock up with food and water for a long duration.

If you think you may have come in contact with someone infected, then you should take the following precautions:

• Keep your distance, a couple yards, from others
• Wash with alcohol
• Notify the local hospital or your doctor and do as told
• Quarantine yourself
• Stay isolated 2 weeks for symptoms to develop
• Drink plenty of water
• Eat fruits and vegetables
• Take immune boosting vitamins such as Vitamin C
• Eat antiviral herbal supplements such as echinacea
• Check your temperature regularly
• Get plenty of rest and avoid physical exertion
• Limit exposure to others in your house; they should always wear goggles, air mask, gloves, and protective clothing
• If you develop any symptoms notify your doctor immediately

If you are infected, then you may see some of these symptoms:

• Fever
• Aching muscles
• Headache
• Diarrhea
• Coughing
• Pneumonia

If you become infected do exactly as your healthcare provider instructs. Your chances of surviving SARS are good, but you must be a good patient.

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