[Ask Dr Chiu] Which is more horrifying, Novel Coronavirus or SARS?

2020-02-10

5 Mins Read

As we now fight against the novel coronavirus, memories of the worrying and frightening scenes from 17 years ago resurfaced: everyone wore surgical masks, schools were closed, and businesses were shut down. With the novel coronavirus claiming the first life in Hong Kong recently, Hong Kongers are once again taking the same level of precautions as we did for SARS. But what exactly is the novel coronavirus?

SARS vs Novel Coronavirus

The SARS virus and the Novel Coronavirus carry many similarities, but they do differ in infectivity and severity:

Virus Type

SARS: Coronavirus

Novel Coronavirus: Also coronavirus but is not a mutation from SARS

Mode of transmission

SARS: Transmission via droplets, indirect contact and possibly through faeces

Novel Coronavirus: Transmission via droplets, indirect contact and possibly through faeces

Infectivity

SARS: 8,000 cases worldwide

Novel Coronavirus: More than 43,000 cases as of 11 Feb

Symptoms at onset

SARS: fever, shortness of breath, cough, muscle ache and sore throat

Novel Coronavirus: fever, shortness of breath, cough, muscle ache and sore throat.

Severity

SARS: Most cases are severe. Can lead to severe damages of the lungs known as Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS). Most patients with ARDS require treatment in intensive care unit, and lead to death from complications and multi-organ failure.

Novel Coronavirus: Including mild to severe cases. Some carriers have no symptoms at all. Can also lead to ARDS. Most patients with ARDS require treatment in intensive care unit, and may lead to death from complications and multi-organs failure.

Mortality

SARS: 10%

Novel Coronavirus: 2%, but needs time to verify as many patients are still being treated

Treatment

SARS: Antiviral treatment and organ support therapy

Novel Coronavirus: Antiviral treatment and organ support therapy

In summary, the two viruses are both lethal but if one got infected with the novel coronavirus, it’s possible that the symptoms would be milder and perhaps less fatal, according to data at this moment.

But of course, prevention is the best cure. We now know the novel coronavirus transmits in the same way as SARS, it is of paramount that we exercise the same precautions and determination: wear face masks, wash hands frequently and be vigilant to observe personal hygiene.

Dr Alexander Chiu, Medical Director, Health and Employee Benefits, AXA Hong Kong and Macau

The above content is reviewed by Dr. Alexander Chiu - Medical Director, Health and Employee Benefits of AXA Hong Kong and Macau

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