""This is now a global epidemic and potentially a global pandemic" if it is not quickly brought under control, said Dr. Julie Gerberding, head of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. "

She's got my attention, but what can we do to prevent the spread? I mentioned this to a few people and they think that I'm over reacting. At this point it's concern, but at some point it will turn to panic. Look at the pictures of people in facemasks in Hong Kong. Any informed advise available?

Please note that the government has already granted itself powers (about a year ago) to lock up any portion of the civilian population they want in the event of a biological threat. Part of FEMA's powers. Question at this date is whether SARS will be deemed sufficient to lock people up on an involuntary quarantine basis. Yes, this means if the government sees this as a big enough threat, they could quarantine people in government camps...removing people from homes and so forth. Thus far the Toronto outbreak has been handled with voluntary quarantines.

SARS news.

adding that the other four suspected cases "essentially resolved their illness."

I would far rather hear "completely recovered from their illness."

"Please note that the government has already granted itself powers (about a year ago) to lock up any portion of the civilian population they want in the event of a biological threat. Part of FEMA's powers."

I understand your comment, but there are century old quaratine laws on the books throughout the US.

Whether detained under a new Federal statute [or regulation issued pursuant to statute], or under an old state or local law the effect is the same isn't it?