Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS)

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS), or SARS-CoV-1, is a rapidly spreading viral disease that impacts the lungs and is potentially fatal. While SARS shares the coronavirus name, there are some differences between the COVID pandemic and the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus.

COVID vs. SARS: how are they different?

The term coronavirus became familiar in late 2002 when the SARS outbreak affected about 8,000 people, leading to the deaths of more than 700. The 2020 COVID pandemic was caused by the outbreak of the SARS coronavirus 2, or SARS-CoV-2, virus.

Both viruses originated in China and are respiratory viruses that affect the lungs and can be potentially fatal, especially in high-risk individuals. While COVID and SARS are similar in many ways, there are a few differences.

Both viruses are respiratory illnesses that are types of coronaviruses and are transmitted through airborne droplets when someone with the virus coughs or sneezes or through direct contact with an infected person. The two coronaviruses have different the symptoms.

For example, diarrhea is a common symptom in people with COVID, but not common in people with severe acute respiratory syndrome. Another difference is that loss of smell and taste were common in COVID patients, but not present in SARS patients.

SARS causes & symptoms

SARS coronavirus 1 is responsible for the severe respiratory symptoms exhibited by infected people.

SARS transmission happens from human-to-human contact, which can occur through respiratory droplets expelled when an infected person coughs or sneezes or direct physical contact with someone infected with SARS.

SARS symptoms

Severe acute respiratory syndrome symptoms typically begin to occur within two to 10 days after being exposed to the virus. Fever is the first noticeable symptom of SARS, followed by flu-like symptoms that intensify over time.

Some common severe acute respiratory syndrome symptoms you may experience include:

• Headaches
• Elevated fever
• Fatigue
• Body aches and pains
• Persistent dry cough
• Shortness of breath or difficulty in breathing
• Diarrhea and chills are less common but can occur in some cases

If you experience any of the above symptoms, it’s important to rest and drink plenty of fluids. Discuss any over-the-counter medications for symptom relief with your primary care doctor or pharmacist before taking them. If symptoms begin to get worse, seek immediate care.

Diagnosing SARS: Tests & procedures

Rapid SARS diagnosis is crucial for proper treatment, for preventing SARS complications and to stop the spread of the virus. At Advocate Health Care, your pulmonologist has access to state-of-the-art testing to accurately diagnose severe acute respiratory syndrome.

Your doctor will perform a thorough physical examination, discuss your symptoms and review your medical history. Some of the tests they may order to diagnose SARS include:

• Viral RNA tests: Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests are a frontline diagnostic tool where mucus from the nose is collected to be tested for the presence of the virus' genetic material.
• Serological testing for antibodies: This blood test detects antibodies against the SARS coronavirus 1 in a patient's blood, confirming previous exposure or infection.
• Other blood tests: These tests evaluate the patient's overall health, determining the presence of the virus and any secondary infections or complications.
• Chest imaging: Chest X-rays or CT scans offer a visual confirmation of lung infections, a key sign of severe SARS cases.

SARS treatment options

There still isn’t an effective treatment for SARS coronavirus 1 despite a global effort to develop one. Until an effective treatment is created, your doctor will use advanced care to help ease symptoms and prevent the spread of the virus. Severe acute respiratory syndrome treatment options include:

• Antiviral treatments and medications: Monoclonal antiviral treatments and antiviral medications may help prevent severe illness in high-risk patients. Contact your primary care provider if you think you may be eligible.
• Corticosteroids: These medications may be given to decrease inflammation in the lungs, which helps with breathing.
• Supportive treatments: Oxygen therapy, hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT), intravenous (IV) fluids and medications to address symptoms like fever and cough.
• Mechanical ventilation: In severe cases where patients struggle to breathe independently, ventilators are used to ensure they receive sufficient oxygen.

There may be cases where antibiotics are given to prevent a secondary infection. It is important to note, antibiotics do not kill the SARS coronavirus 1 virus.

SARS prevention measures

Given the contagious nature of SARS, strict preventive measures are encouraged and often better than treatment. The CDC recommends the following to prevent spreading SARS coronavirus 1:

• Wash your hands regularly for a minimum of 20 seconds with soap and water
• Use alcohol-based hand sanitizers
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth
• Regularly clean surfaces and objects
• Avoid contact with people who exhibit symptoms
• Wear face coverings in crowded places or near infected people

Compassionate care for SARS patients

At Advocate Health Care, you can trust that you’ll receive the highest level of care for severe acute respiratory syndrome. Our pulmonologists work closely with any health care support services you may need to coordinate ongoing care and speed recovery from SARS coronavirus 1.

Learn more about Advocate's lung and respiratory care services.