The primary way that SARS appears to spread is by close person-to-person contact. SARS-CoV is thought to be transmitted most readily by respiratory droplets (droplet spread) produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Droplet spread can happen when droplets from the cough or sneeze of an infected person are propelled a short distance (generally up to 3 feet) through the air and deposited on the mucous membranes of the mouth, nose, or eyes of persons who are nearby.

SARS stands for severe acute respiratory syndrome. It's a new disease that doctors still don't know much about.

The incubation period for SARS is believed to be short, around three to six days. The speed of international travel does, however, create a risk that cases can rapidly spread around the world.

Practising good personal hygiene is a key to stopping the spread of this disease. Thorough hand-washing - using hot, soapy water and lathering for at least 20 seconds - is the single most important procedure for preventing infections. This is because disease-causing micro-organisms can frequently be found on the hands.

It is possible that SARS could be spread when a person touches a contaminated object or surface; however, how often this might happen, or if it happens at all, is not known at this time. Previously identified coronaviruses (scientists have reported that a new cororavirus may be the cause of SARS) have been shown to survive in the environment for as long as 3 hours.

Earlier this year, the American Institute in Taiwan instituted remote data entry through the Atos Origin Application Processing Center (APC). The APC has resulted in even better, faster service for our customers. The institution of the biometric system will not change current visa application procedures, and we will make the new process as smooth and quick as possible.

They are a lot like pneumonia or the flu. People get a very high fever -- at least 100.4 degrees. They also usually have shortness of breath or other problems breathing and a dry cough. Some people get other symptoms, including a headache, stiff or achy muscles, a loss of appetite, fatigue, a rash and diarrhea.

Antibiotics don't seem to work, which is usually the case with virus-caused diseases. One antiviral drug known as ribavirin may help, but doctors aren't sure yet.