TLDR;
This video explains Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) and Bird Flu, including their causes, transmission methods, symptoms, prevention strategies, similarities, and differences. SARS is a viral respiratory illness caused by a coronavirus, while Bird Flu is caused by avian influenza viruses. Both originated in animals before spreading to humans and can cause severe respiratory issues, but they differ in their transmission and primary prevention methods.
- SARS is caused by a coronavirus and spreads easily from person to person through respiratory droplets.
- Bird Flu is caused by avian influenza viruses and is primarily transmitted from birds to humans.
- Prevention for SARS focuses on hygiene and respiratory protection, while prevention for Bird Flu centers on avoiding contact with birds and contaminated environments.
Intro [0:00]
The video introduces a discussion about Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) and Bird Flu. It outlines the topics to be covered, including what these diseases are, how they spread, methods of prevention, and their similarities and differences. The discussion begins with SARS.
What is SARS? [0:21]
SARS, or Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome, is a viral disease affecting the respiratory system, caused by a coronavirus known as SARS-associated coronavirus. The initial cases were recorded in late February 2003, coinciding with the disease's emergence in China and its rapid spread to four other countries. The World Health Organization (WHO), through the Global Outbreak Alert and Response Network, quickly launched investigations to collaborate with health authorities in affected countries. This collaboration aimed to provide epidemiological, clinical, and logistical support to manage and prevent the disease's spread.
How does SARS spread? [1:19]
SARS is caused by an airborne virus and spreads through small droplets of saliva from the mouth or nose of an infected person, similar to how colds and influenza spread. It was one of the first severe and novel diseases of the 21st century, spreading rapidly and demonstrating the ability to reach different parts of the world through travel. The virus can also be transmitted by touching objects or surfaces contaminated by an infected person. Most people who contract SARS are between 25 and 70 years old and were previously healthy. Some suspected cases were reported in children under 15. The case fatality rate for probable or suspected SARS cases is approximately 3%.
Symptoms of SARS? [2:35]
Symptoms of SARS typically appear two to seven days after exposure, starting with a high fever of 38 degrees Celsius or higher, headache, severe fatigue, chills, and muscle pain. As the condition worsens, patients may develop a dry cough and difficulty breathing due to pneumonia. Some patients also experience diarrhea. In severe cases, SARS can lead to acute respiratory distress and a drop in oxygen levels.
How to prevent SARS? [3:22]
According to WHO guidelines, SARS can be prevented by regularly washing hands with soap or using an alcohol-based sanitizer. Avoid close contact with people who have a cough, fever, or symptoms of respiratory infection. Wear a mask, especially in crowded places or during an outbreak. Cover the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing. Keep frequently touched objects clean, such as doorknobs, tables, and cellphones. Avoid touching the eyes, nose, and mouth without washing hands. If symptoms develop and there is a possibility of exposure to the virus, seek immediate medical attention.
What is Bird Flu? [4:21]
Bird flu, caused by avian influenza type A viruses, is a disease commonly found in birds. Although rare, it can be transmitted to humans if they are exposed to bird flu viruses. In many cases, infected people show no symptoms, but the virus can cause conditions such as eye irritation, upper respiratory symptoms, or severe infections like pneumonia, which can be fatal.
How is Bird Flu transmitted? [5:03]
Bird flu infection in humans typically occurs through close or prolonged contact with infected birds without adequate protection, such as gloves, respiratory protection, or eye protection. It is also possible to get infected by touching areas contaminated with droppings, saliva, or other fluids from sick birds. Although rare, humans can also contract the virus from animals that become intermediate hosts, such as cats or cattle, before it is transmitted to humans. Infection can occur if the virus enters the mouth, nose, or eyes, or if a person inhales air containing the virus, possibly from contaminated droplets or dust. The virus can also be transmitted if a person touches contaminated objects and then touches their mouth, eyes, or nose, or inhales the virus. An infected person can spread the virus through coughing or sneezing. Although human-to-human transmission is possible, it is not common and is not the primary way the bird flu spreads to humans.
Symptoms of Bird Flu [6:31]
Symptoms of bird flu can appear two to eight days after exposure. Common symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, body aches, and fatigue. In some cases, redness or irritation of the eye (conjunctivitis) may occur. Individuals may also experience difficulty breathing, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and vomiting. Severe infections can lead to pneumonia, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), sepsis, and organ failure.
How to prevent Bird Flu? [7:20]
According to the World Health Organization, bird flu can be prevented by avoiding direct contact with sick or dead birds, especially during an outbreak. Avoid touching droppings, saliva, or any fluids from birds or poultry without protection. Ensure that chicken and eggs are thoroughly cooked before consumption. If working on poultry farms or live markets, use protective gear such as gloves and masks. Avoid going to live bird markets when there are reports of avian influenza. Always wash hands after handling animals or anything that may be contaminated. Report any sudden deaths of birds in your area to local authorities immediately.
Similarities between SARS and Bird Flu [8:24]
SARS and bird flu are both caused by viruses that can cause severe respiratory illness. Both originated in animals before being transmitted to humans, making them zoonotic diseases. They can both spread through respiratory droplets, especially with close contact, and can potentially cause severe pneumonia and complications. Both are closely monitored by the World Health Organization due to the risk of causing large outbreaks.
Differences between SARS and Bird Flu [9:02]
SARS is caused by a coronavirus, while bird flu is caused by the avian influenza type A virus. SARS is more easily transmitted from person to person, whereas bird flu is rarely transmitted between humans and is more commonly contracted from birds. Prevention for SARS focuses on hygiene and respiratory protection. In contrast, prevention for bird flu centers on avoiding contact with birds, their droppings, and places where they are raised or sold. Although both cause pulmonary symptoms, the exposure risk for bird flu is more agricultural, while SARS spreads more rapidly in the community.
