DHSS Press Release |
Date: December 18, 2003 DHSS-133-2003 |
| Vincent P. Meconi, Secretary Karryl McManus, Deputy Secretary (302) 255-9047, Pager (302) 247-2116 |
Contact: Heidi Truschel-Light Phone: (302) 744-4907 Pager: (302) 247-1560 |
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
SARS CASE CONTAINED IN TAIWAN, DPH MONITORING DEVELOPMENTS
Delaware's Division of Public Health (DPH) alerted the state's health care providers Wednesday that a single case of SARS was reported in a research scientist in Taiwan. This is the second case of SARS infection that was likely acquired in a laboratory since the initial worldwide outbreak. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is in close communication with the Department of Health in Taiwan and the World Health Organization regarding this situation.
Because of precautionary measures taken in Taiwan, this occurrence is not predicted to impact Delaware. There is no evidence of SARS circulating in the general population worldwide. Travelers with fever will be restricted from leaving Taiwan and the SARS alert level in Taiwan is expected to return to normal following a self-imposed isolation and evaluation period.
DPH has prepared guidelines to assist the health care community in monitoring and planning for SARS. DPH encourages health care providers to use the information to review infection control and patient education procedures, monitor and report signs and symptoms and to acquire necessary personal protective equipment. However, there is no reason at this time to take additional measures. DPH will continue to communicate with CDC on this issue and will distribute information via the Delaware Health Alert Network as it becomes available.
Because influenza and SARS have similar symptoms, residents may be concerned that they have SARS, especially if they have recently traveled internationally. SARS typically begins with a fever greater than 100.4°F. Other symptoms may include headache, an overall feeling of discomfort, and body aches. Some people also experience diarrhea and a dry cough. Most patients develop pneumonia.
Influenza produces fever of approximately 102°F that lasts for 3-4 days, and almost always includes a severe dry cough, severe muscle aches and abrupt onset of extreme fatigue.
Delaware residents who are experiencing signs or symptoms of influenza or are concerned about pneumonia-like symptoms, should consult their health care provider for assessment and treatment, if necessary.
There remains sufficient flu vaccine to provide protection to Delawareans who are included in at-risk groups. Flu shots are available by appointment by calling the following sites:
Appointments are available 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Monday-Friday.
NEW CASTLE
- Northeast State Service Center, (302) 577-3536
1624 Jessup Street, Wilmington - Floyd I. Hudson State Service Center, (302) 283-7587
501 Ogletown Rd., Newark - Middletown Health Unit, (302) 378-5200
214 N. Broad Street, Middletown
KENT & SUSSEX COUNTIES
- James W. Williams State Service Center, (302) 739-4726
805 River Rd., Dover, beside Route 13 - Milford State Service Center, (302) 422-1338
11-13 N. Church Avenue, Milford - Georgetown State Service Center, (302) 856-5213
546 S. Bedford St., Georgetown - Anna C. Shipley State Service Center, (302) 628-2006
350 Virginia Ave., Seaford
Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware's citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.
