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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is currently suggesting that people with symptoms related to Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (fever, cough, difficulty breathing), and people who come into contact with them, wear surgical masks. The World Health Organization has also approved a type of mask called the N-95 for medical personnel and patients. Based on these recommendations, it appears that the masks may be effective if used properly. That said, researchers believe that the virus is not airborne and can only be spread through close contact with an infected individual. Wearing surgical masks in public as a
general precautionary measure has not been advocated by any major health organization. Also, many of the masks seen on the streets made of paper or woven fabric will do little to prevent the spread of any type of virus. Yahoo! Health provides an extensive amount of information on SARS, such as a symptom chart and a breakdown of cases in the United States. The overview section offers these
precautionary tips: always practice excellent hand hygiene, don't share utensils, and make sure to clean dirty surfaces with household disinfectants. You'll find the latest news on the subject on Yahoo! Full Coverage. While the virus is obviously a serious concern, local and national health organizations have responded swiftly and worked to contain its impact. Finally, the new SARS category in the Yahoo! Directory provides a number of excellent resources, including this Red Cross page.
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