Those who have suffered severe acute respiratory syndrome know how difficult it is. Caused by the SARS-corona virus, it causes such symptoms as fever, sore throat, coughing, digestive problems, and shortness of breath. It is transferred by contact with an infected person, such as by coughing and sneezing on someone else and spreading the virus. It can be diagnosed with chest x-rays, blood testing, and according to symptoms. Antibiotics, steroids, and oxygen are all possible treatments for severe acute respiratory syndrome. Often negative pressure rooms are used in treatment of patients and outside contact is restricted with great care taken by healthcare providers to avoid spread of the illness. In regards to a cure, the Chinese have developed a vaccine in the testing stage with a promising degree of success. While testing continues on the most effective treatment alternatives, a definitive cure is still in the experimental stage. Hopefully, scientists will have a break-through in the near future. In the mean time, people can do their best ot prevent spread of Severe acute respiratory syndrome by proactive choices such as regular hand washing, using tissues when sick or coughing into one’s sleeve instead of the hands, and maintaining good health.