Many people think that avian influenza and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) are very similar, or even the same thing. They are not. It is easy to understand where this misconception comes from. Both viruses originated in Southeast Asia and both have received widespread media attention.

Bird flu and SARS -- what's the difference?

In order to better understand the differences between SARS and bird flu, let’s first look at the ways in which the diseases are similar:

• Both are potentially fatal viruses.
  
• Both are respiratory diseases.
• Both have first affected animals and then made the jump to humans.
• Both have similar symptoms, including fever and difficulty breathing.
• At present, there is no known cure for either virus.

Despite these similarities, there are very significant differences between avian flu and SARS. These differences include:

• Bird flu is caused by a flu virus while the SARS virus is more closely related to the common cold.
• SARS can be transmitted from person to person. So far, MOST CASES of bird flu have only been transmitted from birds to humans. (THERE HAVE BEEN A FEW CASES OF PROBABLE HUMAN-TO-HUMAN TRANSMISSION)

A dangerous potential

Over 320 people have contracted H5N1, at least 200 of whom have died from it (WHO SEP. 10,2007). When compared to other illnesses, these are extremely small numbers. Still, there is reason to monitor the disease closely.

Flu viruses are constantly changing and mutating. Although bird flu is much harder to contract than SARS, health experts are worried that it could mutate into a virus that is easily transmitted during human contact.

If a person who had a common human influenza also contracted H5N1, the viruses could exchange genetic material, forming a new bird flu that could be passed easily from person to person. This terrible scenario has many scientists worried about a worldwide outbreak, which would mostly likely infect many more people than SARS.

Because bird flu has a high fatality rate, a global outbreak could cause millions of deaths. In contrast to flu viruses, the SARS virus has not shown the same tendency to mutate peoples toes.

Currently, there are no known cases of SARS. The 2003 outbreak seems to be over. However, scientists say there is always the possibility that it could return, perhaps in an even more dangerous form.

Preventing bird flu and SARS

Although SARS and bird flu come from different sources, they both enter the body through mucus membranes. Therefore, they are preventable in the same ways:

• When traveling in affected areas, avoid touching surfaces that may have been contaminated by infected humans or birds.
• If you suspect you have come in contact with an infected person or bird, or touched a contaminated surface, wash your hands.
• Avoid touching your face, especially your nose and eyes.
  

See also

• Infection in humans
• Virus dispersion
• How you can prepare
• The latest news