This issue is about the SARS virus and what we can do to protect ourselves.

The majority of SARS news coverage has focused on the latest numbers of suspected cases, confirmed cases and deaths. Amidst all that repetition is a lack of practical advice for avoiding and recognizing infection.

In brief, if you are in area affected by SARS, wash your hands thoroughly and frequently and avoid areas with large crowds or a lot of foot traffic.

Also, avoid contact with possible entry points on your body -- e.g. rubbing your eyes or eating with your hands. If you think you may be infected (fever, overall discomfort, headache, respiratory difficulties), quarantine yourself and contact your local health authorities.

I recommend visiting one of the following sites for good, concise information:

• The SARS website of the Center for Disease Control (CDC)

• The City of Toronto SARS fact sheet (in no less than nine languages)

The most alarming recent news is that the mortality rate is higher than originally expected. For individuals under the age of 24, the mortality rate is approximately seven percent. For those over the age of 60, that estimate jumps to fifty percent! The reason for the higher mortality rate among seniors is partially due to the presence of pre-existing conditions and hence an already taxed immune system. This underscores yet again the importance of taking care of ourselves and ensuring that our immune systems are as strong as possible. This will surely be a recurring theme of this newsletter.

The West Nile Virus, Mad Cow Disease, Dutch bird flu, SARS, antibiotic-resistant viruses... new diseases are becoming a way of life. And let's not forget the threat of bioterrorism. So let's make sure that our best line of defence -- our bodies -- are in good working order through proper sleep, nutrition, environment, and fitness! More on that in coming newsletters.

At Your Service,
Robert Vanden Heuvel
Wellness Consultant

Click here to return to Health & Wellness 45-Second Newsletter.

		Please feel free to contact me by e-mail or phone: robvh@wellness5.com Robert Vanden Heuvel • Tel: 403-710-4369