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It seems to me that a distinct advantage we have in dealing with a contemplated SARS outbreak is the relatively long ( 6 days ) incubation of the virus as compared to influenza ( about 2 days ).

Rapid identification of contacts, and rigorous quarantine can quickly contain an outbreak, once a primary case is identified, a process that is just not feasible when dealing with influenza cases. Of course, such a process is only possible where competent public health authorities are in place.

So I guess I am a little more optimistic than some on this thread that should a worldwide pandemic of SARS eventuate this fall, we are better situated than most to contain widespread infection than those poor third world souls whose only public health system is a wing and a prayer.

I share your concern about the toll any epidemic will take on smaller hospitals, especially if every patient in a facility with respiratory symptoms or a fever has to be treated as a potential SARS case. There aren't enough N 95 masks in all of Christendom to meet the demand if this happens.