|
WKU Health Services
Offical Statement on Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome
(SARS)
** Announcement** It has been found that there is currently no evidence of person-to-person transmission of SARS in the world. CLICK on the website to read more: http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/sars/situation.htm
A. Presenting Symptoms
a. Fever > or = to 100.5°F, AND
b. Signs of respiratory infection (cough, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing)
B. People at Risk
a. Travel (including transit in an airport) within 10 days of onset of symptoms to an area with current or previously documented or suspected community transmission of SARS, OR
b. Close contact within 10 days of onset with a person known or suspected to have SARS. See the current case definition from the CDC for travel criteria and definition of terms at: http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/sars/casedefinition.htm
C. If a case presents to WKU Health Services:
a. Symptoms of respiratory illness and history of risk is obtained
b. Patient is isolated if SARS criteria are met.
c. Barren River District Health Department (270/781-8039) is notified to assist in disposition and transport to
the proper medical facility.
D. Potential exposure in residence halls
a. Exposed students without fever or respiratory symptoms should not be excluded from school. These students
should be vigilant for the onset of symptoms and report them at once to WKU Health Services. Their exposure
should also be reported to WKU Health Services.
b. Exposed students who develop fever or respiratory symptoms during the 10 days following exposure should
seek immediate medical evaluation. Meanwhile they should take measures to prevent transmission such as
avoiding contact with others, diligent hand washing and not sharing personal items or community facilities.
Symptomatic exposed students should not go to school or work, but should stay home while arranging medical
evaluation. In advance of the evaluation, health care providers should be advised that the patient might be
developing SARS.
c. If the student is symptomatic AND meets the conditions for risk of SARS, then alternative housing
arrangements should be made. If alternative arrangements are not possible, the student should be
hospitalized.
E. New and Updated information can be found at:
a. CDC's SARS website at: http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/sars/
b. WKU Health Services - contact Dr. Redden or Dr. Blewett @ 270/745-5641
Rev. 3/18/04
|
|
