The recent outbreak of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) has international travelers worried. SARS, caused by a new virus from the family of corona viruses, originated in the southern China province of Guangdong, and has since spread to Hong Kong, Vietnam, Singapore and Canada, as well as France, Britain, Taiwan, Germany and the U.S. Travelers flying to and from Asia have been given health-warning brochures explaining the syndrome and passengers on several flights back to the U.S. have been briefly quarantined due to SARS fears.

SARS is believed to spread through the air, by droplets expelled when an infected person sneezes or coughs. Direct infection can occur within a radius of around three feet. The virus can survive from three to five hours outside the human body, so it can be spread indirectly through contact with an infected object.

The main symptoms of SARS are high fever, cough and shortness of breath or other breathing difficulties. The disease has an incubation period of two to seven days.

Although there is currently no treatment for SARS, physicians have been using anti-viral drugs and steroids with good results in persons treated soon after coming down with symptoms.

Travel to and from areas of infection has not yet been restricted, although the World Health Organization is advising international travelers to be aware of the symptoms of SARS. Anyone who experiences SARS symptoms and has been in close contact with a person who has been diagnosed with the disease, or has recently traveled to areas where cases of SARS have been spreading, should see a physician immediately.

Travel to Asia has declined due to SARS fears and the belief that airplanes are high risk factor in spreading the disease. Some airlines, such as Singapore and Cathay- Pacific, are disinfecting hard surfaces and providing masks to passengers.

If you are planning travel to an Asian destination, consider delaying your trip until the disease is under better control. If you can't defer the trip, here are some precautions to take:

When you board the aircraft, use a good qualify disinfectant on any near-seat surfaces which are likely to have been frequently touched by others, i.e. armrests, seatbacks, tray tables, light and air controls, adjacent walls and windows. Also wipe down lavatory surfaces, especially door and sink handles before use.

Wash your hands frequently.

Pack several clean towels in your carry-on bag. You can drape them over seatbacks or pillows to give yourself additional protection.

Keep your distance from any passenger who appears to be ill.

Wear a surgical mask on your arrival in Asia.

Monitor yourself and see a physician immediately if any SARS symptoms develop within ten days of your overseas travel.