Flu and Covid-19 are diseases you know, but have you ever heard of severe acute respiratory syndrome (S A R S) ? Brazil is experiencing an increase in cases of this serious complication of respiratory infections, which mainly affects children under 2 years old.
Even so, it is worth warning about prevention and early diagnosis for all groups! This way, in addition to avoiding individual contamination, we reduce the transmission of the disease, protecting the most vulnerable people.
Given this public health problem, it is important to know the prevention and control measures to avoid the most serious cases. Therefore, check out the symptoms of SARS, when to seek help, how the diagnosis is made and what treatments are available for the condition.
Difference between influenza-like illness and severe acute respiratory syndrome (S A R S)
Although they share some similarities, the two syndromes have important differences, especially regarding severity and clinical management.
Flu-like illness is a medical term that describes various signs and symptoms that can be caused by different types of respiratory viruses, such as:
- influenza (flu);
- parainfluenza;
- adenovirus;
- respiratory syncytial virus.
The condition includes at least two of the following signs and symptoms: sudden onset of fever, cough, sore throat, chills, runny nose, olfactory or taste disturbances, myalgia (muscle pain), headache, or arthralgia (joint pain).
When a patient shows signs of severity such as dyspnea (shortness of breath), respiratory distress, oxygen saturation below 95%, or bluish coloration (cyanosis) of the lips or face, healthcare providers diagnose severe acute respiratory syndrome.
Not all cases of severe acute respiratory disease stem from viruses; bacteria, fungi, and other agents can also contribute.
If a patient experiences shock or exhibits dysfunction of vital organs, respiratory failure, or hemodynamic instability (inadequate blood pressure), medical staff must admit them to the ICU. Complications may require mechanical ventilation and can even lead to death.
Risk of hospitalization
There are some factors that increase the risk of hospitalization due to severe acute respiratory illness, such as:
- pre-existing chronic diseases (pneumopathies, cardiovascular, hematological, metabolic, neurological diseases , among others);
- age (≤ 2 years or ≥ 60 years);
- indigenous population;
- pregnant women;
- postpartum women;
- type of virus that is causing the disease;
- lack of vaccination;
- use of antiviral medications when administered after 72 hours of symptom onset.
Severe acute respiratory crisis is considered a disease of epidemiological importance , which means that it must be reported to the Ministry of Health. This allows investigation of which viruses are in circulation, and this information is important for:
- study the genetic and pathogenic characteristics of these viruses;
- monitor the resistance of these viruses to existing drugs;
- control possible outbreaks;
- monitor the demand for service.
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Diagnosis and treatment options for(S A R S)
Although the initial symptoms are similar, distinguishing between influenza-like syndrome and severe acute respiratory syndrome is essential to determine the level of medical interventions that the patient should receive.
When the patient presents signs and symptoms of severe acute respiratory syndrome, without signs of severity or risk factors , treatment is only symptomatic. Recommendations are that the patient drink more fluids and only return to the health care facility if there is a worsening of the clinical condition or the appearance of signs of severity.
In this situation, or when the patient belongs to a risk group, treatment includes the use of an antiviral. In case of signs of worsening, tests such as X-rays may be requested.
On the other hand, if the patient already shows signs of severity and the diagnosis of severe acute respiratory disease is confirmed, the medical team will assess the need for hospitalization in an ICU bed .
If negative, treatment is carried out with antivirals, antibiotics, intravenous hydration and oxygen therapy. In addition to the X-ray, specific complementary tests are requested. If positive, the procedure is the same, but monitoring continues in the intensive care unit.
Tips on how to avoid severe acute respiratory syndrome
With the increase in the number of cases of severe acute respiratory syndrome, it is important to take some preventive measures. To avoid diseases such as influenza and Covid-19, vaccination is the main strategy .
Wearing a mask in healthcare settings also reduces the risk of contracting respiratory viruses. In all settings, respiratory etiquette must be followed , i.e., measures such as:
- cover your mouth and nose when sneezing;
- clean your hands with soap and water or alcohol gel, especially before and after touching your eyes, mouth and nose;
- avoid touching your eyes, mouth and nose after touching handrails, door handles, etc.;
- maintain physical distancing;
- clean and disinfect surfaces.
In addition, people with flu-like symptoms should avoid direct contact with other people, as well as collective environments and crowds. Another recommendation is that those who are part of the risk group seek medical care as soon as flu-like symptoms appear. This way, it is possible to continue with the appropriate treatment.
Taking simple measures can prevent the spread of respiratory diseases and the incidence of severe acute respiratory syndrome. If you still have symptoms of flu-like illness, don’t wait for the situation to get worse. Prevention and early diagnosis are essential to saving lives. Protect yourself and those you love.
Conclusion on Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS)
In conclusion, Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) remains a significant chapter in the history of infectious diseases. First identified in 2002, SARS demonstrated the potential for rapid transmission and severe health impacts, leading to a global outbreak that emphasized the need for effective public health responses. Lessons learned from the SARS outbreak have informed strategies for managing future respiratory infections, including enhanced surveillance, improved diagnostics, and the importance of international collaboration. Continued vigilance and research are essential to prevent and mitigate the effects of similar diseases in the future.
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