Isolation is the most efficient way to combat the severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) as no specific prevention methods are available now, Chinese virologist Mao Jiangsen said here Friday.
"Given that SARS is caused by an unknown coronal virus, it will be difficult to identify an effective treatment within a short period of time. My past experience shows that isolation is rather important at the present time," said Mao, an academician with the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS).
Having studied virology for more than 40 years, Mao is well-known in China for his outstanding contributions to the development of vaccines against hepatitis A, also an epidemic, in 1991.
"Although we still know little about the biological properties of this coronal virus, research on various types of viruses dates back 100 years. Our studies show that chlorine-based disinfectants and ultraviolet radiation can check the spread of the virus," he said.
The Chinese Ministry of Health has ordered the immediate reporting of potential SARS cases which, once identified, must be placed in isolation and under quarantine.
Given that SARS is highly infectious, Mao said governments at various levels should take effective measures to ensure prompt and accurate counting of cases in order to track transmission and prevent cross-infection.
Warning that any cover-up could lead to catastrophe, Mao said people in unaffected regions should not panic, but should take preventive measures in their daily lives.
(Xinhua News Agency April 25, 2003)
