Case Study: The Threat of SARS
Create a 2- to 3-page document in Microsoft Word document answering the following questions:
• In your opinion, what could be the possible reasons of a sudden outbreak of new disease?
• What are the ways of addressing a new and virulent contagious disease?
• Discuss in detail about the countries which have faced epidemics in the past. What would have been the possible reasons for such outbreaks?
West Nile Virus:
You are the director of communicable diseases in a city health department, responsible for a large urban community. It is early spring in 2003. For the past two years, your department has been working to control the spread of the West Nile Virus and you are pleased with the progress so far. This morning you read about a suspected outbreak of a new disease called SARS which is suspected to have killed dozens of people in Hong Kong. While West Nile Virus is carried by birds, especially crows, SARS is transmitted among people.
When you get to the office and check your email you learn that the World Health Organization has placed a number of East Asian cities off limits for all but essential travel. You also learn that Canada has reported deaths they believe are due to SARS. You are now confronted with addressing a new and virulent contagious disease.
Discuss the approach you would adopt in such a situation.