United Press International is reporting that the Centers for Disease Control considers SARS a high-potential public health threat. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases is quoted as telling Congress "we have to take this very, very seriously."
Meanwhile, Frank sez “I want to take this time to assure Alaskans that there have not been any reported or suspected cases of SARS in Alaska to date. State health officials are expediting all Center for Disease Control (CDC) health advisories to Alaska health care workers. This is being done so symptoms can be recognized quickly and reported back to state epidemiologists and the CDC.
“Currently the Anchorage CDC staff and the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Office meet all incoming passenger flights at the Anchorage International Airport originating from affected areas in Asia. All passengers from these flights get a CDC information card explaining the situation to them .
“We are prepared and the Alaska Division of Public Health has an action plan to coordinate all agencies’ actions in the event of a suspected SARS case in Alaska. We will continue to monitor the situation closely and keep the public informed.”