New York, June 05: Stating that SARS cases were "clearly in decline," World Health Organisation has said that for the first time in 10 weeks, no deaths were reported from any part of the world in a single day due to the outbreak. As "outbreaks at all initial hot zones either contained or coming under control, SARS is clearly in decline, indicating that the recommended control measures are effective when combined with political commitment and determination," the WHO said. With no deaths reported, yesterday became the first day in 10 weeks without a fatality due to the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome, the UN agency said. So far, 8,402 probable SARS cases and 772 deaths, mostly in China, have been reported.
The highest number of deaths occurred during the second week of March, when as many as 20 people died in a single day.

The fact that the chain of transmission has been broken in Vietnam and Singapore underscores the who position that SARS can be contained, despite the absence of a vaccine, robust diagnostic test and specific treatment.


Vietnam has remained free of new SARS cases since April 8. In Singapore, the last locally acquired probable case was isolated on May 11.


The experience in Toronto, where more than 70 new cases have been reported since may 26, underscores the risk of a resurgence of cases and the constant need for vigilance.

A single imported case can re-ignite an outbreak or bring cases to a new area, if preparedness measures are weak, the WHO added.

Bureau Report