PROTOCOL

1. Treating physicians will inform public health of suspect/probable SARS cases involving receiving fresh blood products.

2. Public health should ask if the patients of suspect or probable cases has received a blood transfusion during the 10 days prior to the onset of their fever.

3. If no, this risk factor is eliminated.

4. If yes, collect the following information:
   

   1. The date of transfusion
      
   2. Location of transfusion
      
   3. Names, blood donor ID number (all blood donors have this) and demographic information
      
   4. Assess where the transfusion was done (out In/Out Patient Department)
   
   

5. Public health immediately to inform the local hospital bloodbank that has issued the blood. Provincial traceback/lookback procedures will be activated, which includes informing CBS/Héma-Québec.

6. CBS/Héma-Québec will activate their trace back procedures.

7. Health Canada Biologic and Genetic Therapies Directorate will be informed through the CBS/Héma-Québec.

8. Regulatory action will be given by Biologics and Genetic Therapies Directorate to CBS/Héma-Québec for further actions and follow-up.

9. Public health officials determine if further actions are needed based on diagnostic testing results on the blood donor.

Prepared by:
Dr. Antonio Giulivi
Director, BSSHCAID/CIDPC/PHAC
April 16, 2003

[Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS)]