FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 17, 2003
Contact: Kerre Fisher, (907) 748-7398
Public Health Advisory:
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS)
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Anchorage, Alaska During the weekend the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a public health advisory for the recent outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome in several countries. SARS cases have been reported in China (Guangdong Province and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region), Vietnam, Canada, Indonesia, Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand.
In response to the CDC health advisory, the Alaska Division of Public Health is coordinating with hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare partners in the state to ensure that if any cases are suspected in Alaska, they are investigated, reported and properly cared for with minimal risk of infection to other individuals.
“Alaska is a busy crossroads for people and cargo traveling from many of these countries to other parts of the world. It is important that all healthcare workers in the state are informed of the symptoms of SARS, so we can respond to any suspected cases before it is spread to others,” said DPH acting director Deb Erickson.
According to the CDC health advisory, approximately 150 cases have been reported so far; none of which are in the U.S. CDC also activated its emergency operations center on Friday, March 14, upon learning of several cases reported in Canada among travelers recently returned from Southeast Asia and their family members.
The attached health advisory details symptoms and conditions that healthcare workers will be looking for in suspected cases of SARS. Anyone meeting these conditions or having these symptoms, should consult their healthcare provider.
Other Online Information:
Additional information on SARS can be found at:
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For more information, please contact
Sherry Hill, Special Assistant to the Commissioner for Communications
(907) 465-1611Or
Ross Soboleff
Public Information Officer III
(907) 465-1611
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