The next few weeks will be crucial in terms of knowing whether the current SARS outbreak can be contained. The most recent statistics suggest that the outbreak has been contained in Canada, Hong Kong, Singapore and Vietnam, but is still far from under control in China.  Epidemiological studies suggest that the primary routes for spread of the virus are by direct contact or via "droplets" of infected mucous etc which can be spread via the airborne route over short distances. Cross infection via this route involves either inhalation of infected particles, or contamination of hands and other surfaces, particularly hand contact surfaces such as door and tap handles, hand rails and so on. Infection then occurs either by hand to mouth transfer or by rubbing the nasal mucosa or the eyes These findings are consistent with the growing evidence base which suggests that, although spread of the common colds occurs via "coughs and sneezes", dispersal of infected "droplets" via hands and other surfaces is also an important route of spread. In 2000 the IFH website featured an article by Professor Ron Eccles of the Common Cold Research Unit, Cardiff, UK in which he presented the evidence for spread of cold viruses via surfaces. Additionally spread from faecal matter infected with the virus has now been shown to be the cause of the majority of the 300+ SARS cases in the Amoy Gardens Apartment blocks outbreak in Hong Kong. An official investigation has now concluded that leaking sewage pipes and inadequate seals on U-bends were the major contributors to the outbreak and that airborne particles carried the virus throughout the complex.  In general, enveloped viruses such as coronaviruses do not last a long time in the environment. It is uncertain how long the new coronavirus associated with SARS can survive in the environment, but in one preliminary study, researchers found that dried and liquid samples of the new coronavirus survived up to 24hrs in the environment. Some laboratories have found the new coronavirus in stool specimens. Research is under way to learn more about the presence and concentration of the virus in different body fluids, including faeces. Researchers also are evaluating if the virus can spread to others through different body fluids. Further information on the survival characteristics of the SARS virus, provided by ProMED, can be viewed clicking here. All of this data suggests that hygiene plays an important part in preventing the spread of "cold" viruses, most particularly the SARS virus - or put another way - good hygiene practice can significantly reduce the infection risks. If the SARS epidemic continues to spread, then ensuring that the public are properly informed about good hygiene practice will be key. In line with this, IFH has produced an information resource for health professionals in the community entitled "Understanding SARS and other respiratory infections". The resource gives background information on respiratory viruses and a code of good hygiene practice aimed at preventing spread. This information can be used to directly advise the public or alternatively to develop information leaflets for distribution to the public.  Other websites offering information and advice on the SARS epidemic are: World Health Organization CDC, United States Public health laboratory Service, UK Medical Services Overseas Ltd., UK ProMED, International Society for Infectious Disease