What Does SARS Stand For?

SARS stands for Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome

SARS, or Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome, is a viral respiratory illness caused by the SARS-associated coronavirus (SARS-CoV). First identified in 2002-2003 during an outbreak in Asia, SARS is characterized by symptoms such as high fever, cough, and difficulty breathing. The disease primarily spreads through respiratory droplets and can lead to severe respiratory distress and pneumonia. Effective infection control measures and public health responses were critical in managing its spread, ultimately containing the outbreak.