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Communicable Diseases Agency

Severe acute respiratory syndrome

Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) is a viral respiratory illness caused by SARS-associated coronavirus (SARS-CoV-1).

Last updated on 7 November 2025

What is SARS?

Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) is a viral respiratory illness caused by SARS-associated coronavirus (SARS-CoV-1). The disease can cause mild to severe complications. No SARS outbreaks have been reported worldwide since 2004.

How is SARS transmitted?

SARS is primarily transmitted through inhalation or direct deposition of infectious respiratory particles released when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It can also be transmitted via contact with contaminated surfaces, such as when a person touches these contaminated surfaces and then touches their eyes, nose or mouth.

The incubation period is typically 2 to 7 days, ranging from 1 to 14 days. 

What are the symptoms of SARS? 

Symptoms may resemble other acute respiratory infections. Signs and symptoms last 3 to 7 days on average. Common symptoms include fever, headache, muscle aches and an overall feeling of discomfort. Respiratory symptoms and diarrhoea may also be present, but they typically occur a few days after the onset of fever.

The majority of SARS infection results in mild symptoms. However, SARS infection can lead to complications in 10% to 20% of cases, including severe respiratory failure that can be fatal.

What are the risk factors?

Persons in contact with confirmed or suspect cases are at risk of infection.

How is SARS treated?

Treatment focuses on managing and relieving the symptoms of the disease. Patients are also treated supportively in the event of breathing difficulty, with oxygen supplementation or other interventions to help with complication of respiratory failure.

How to prevent SARS?

There is currently no approved vaccine against SARS in Singapore.

Preventive measures include:

  • Practise good personal hygiene at all times.

  • Wash your hands regularly with soap, especially before handling food or eating, after going to the toilet, or when hands are dirty from coughing or sneezing.

  • Avoid touching your face, including eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.

  • Avoid sharing of food/drinks or eating utensils.

  • Wear a mask and seeking medical attention promptly when unwell.

Please refer to Health advice for travellers for additional precautions to take when travelling.