SARS Information Resources for Travelers

Public health officials worldwide are trying to combat the spread of the new disease SARS. To help contain the outbreak, experts are urging postponement of travel plans. For those who must travel to affected areas, here are some precautions to take and information sources for the latest SARS updates.

Since it appeared in China last fall, severe acute respiratory syndrome, or SARS, has spread to many other countries, including the United States. Karen Angelichio, a registered nurse with the International Travel Clinic at Duke University Medical Center, says people should postpone nonessential travel to affected areas in Asia.

If you can't avoid travel, take precautions:

"Keep your distance from people as much as possible. Be aware of people around you who might be exhibiting symptoms such as coughing and sneezing and be very diligent about hand-washing, either washing your hands frequently or carrying some anti-bacterial hand gel or wipes with you. Use them frequently."

Angelichio says the situation is changing so rapidly that anyone planning to travel to affected areas should check the latest advisories frequently.

"The two best resources that are updated on a daily basis right now are the Centers for Disease Control Web site and the World Health Organization Web site."

contact sources : Karen Angelichio , 919-681-5422 angel002@mc.duke.edu