This informational briefing will focus on SEVERE ACUTE RESPIRATORY SYNDROME (SARS), which is the deadly flu-like disease, with no known treatment, that was first identified in China. Currently, China has quarantined over 1,000 people who either have symptoms or had close contact with an active case. The United States currently has 62 cases of SARS.

This briefing will focus on local and federal efforts to identify and contain the introduction of SARS in Hawaii and the United States. Among the actions to be reviewed are: Distributing health alert notices to air travelers, working with federal and state departments to assist in the identification and investigation of suspected cases of SARS and a discussion on ways to reduce or prevent the spread of SARS in Hawaii and the United States.

Representatives from the Department of Health, Department of Transportation and other state and federal agencies have been invited to participate in this informational briefing.

IF YOU REQUIRE SPECIAL ASSISTANCE OR AUXILIARY AIDS AND/OR SERVICES TO PARTICIPATE IN THE PUBLIC HEARING PROCESS OF THE STATE HOUSE (I.E., SIGN LANGUAGE INTERPRETER, WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBILITY, OR PARKING DESIGNATED FOR THE DISABLED), PLEASE CONTACT THE COMMITTEE CLERK AT LEAST 24 HOURS PRIOR TO THE HEARING SO ARRANGEMENTS CAN BE MADE.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CALL THE COMMITTEE CLERK AT 586-6218.