Prognosis of SARS

In the outbreak of 2002-2003, there were 8096 known cases of infection and 744 confirmed cases of human death according to the WHO records. Mortality rate was found to be 1% for people aged 24 or less, 6% for those between 25 -44 years, 15% in the 45-60 age group and 50% for those above 60 years. Some people who survived the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome virus have later suffered from pulmonary fibrosis, osteoporosis, and femoral necrosis due to which depressive disorders are also common amongst them.

SARS Research

Antiviral drugs against coronaviruses were not a priority before the SARS-CoV was discovered. The rapid global outbreak of the virus has propelled serious research into understanding and finding a cure against it. Clear understandings of the pathogenesis and genome structure of the SARS virus have revealed possibilities for therapeutic intervention. Development of drugs that are effective against SARS-CoV can lead to better prevention and treatment of added viral infections in humans and animals.

Possible vaccines that can protect against the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome virus as well as other variants of the virus are being developed. Passive immunization was found to be successful in containing SARS-
CoV.