[The epidemiological findings and the experience in the prevention and control of SARS in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region].
OBJECTIVE
To describe the epidemiological findings and the experience in the prevention and control of SARS in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.


METHODS
The outbreak of SARS in Hong Kong was reviewed. Relevant data was collected and epidemiological studies conducted. Preventive measures taken by the Government from the public health perspective were introduced.


RESULTS
Based on the results of epidemiological investigation, the incubation period of SARS typically ranges from 2 - 7 days, but can be over 10 day. Transmission of SARS is mainly through respiratory droplets, and contacts with objects contaminated with a patient's respiratory droplets and secretions. Most of the SARS patients are health care workers and close contacts of SARS patients. Outbreak control measures include: firstly, controlling the source of infection through early detection, early diagnosis, early reporting, early isolation and early treatment: secondly, break the chain of transmission: thirdly, protecting the vulnerable; and fourthly, dissemination of information. At the same time, specific measures which include health checks at border points, home confinement of contacts and school suspension were taken. All of these measures help contain the SARS outbreak.


CONCLUSIONS
Prevention of infectious diseases calls for macro and integrated strategies as well as effective surveillance. Decisive and prompt actions are necessary to control epidemics.
Liang
Ting-hung
TH
Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Field Epidemiology Training Program, Beijing 100050, China.
D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D006723:Hong Kong / Q000453:epidemiology; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D045169:Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000517:prevention & control; D014944:World Health Organization