The SARS virus can be found in respiratory secretions, blood and excretion of SARS patients and may survive for a long duration (up to 24 hrs) in the environment. The mode of transmission is still believed to be by droplet spread through close person to person contact. These droplets travel a distance of about 3 feet from the mouth or nose of an infected person during talking, coughing or sneezing.
The virus can also survive for as long as 24 hours on surfaces like tables, doorknobs, lift buttons etc. Direct contact with secretions from an infected person on these surfaces and subsequent contact with the mucosal surfaces (e.g. nose, mouth, eyes) can transmit the infection.
This highlights the importance of wearing masks as well as frequent hand
washing and avoidance of touching the eyes, face etc. after being in public
areas.
Distant airborne transmission is not occurring. Recent evidence also indicates
that oral-faecal route may be a mode of transmission as increasing numbers of
patients also have diarrhoea as a presenting symptom. Therefore attention
should be given to correct preparation, cooking and storage of food and communal
sharing of food should be avoided as much as possible.