China is still very sensitive on the subject of the epidemic that started within its borders, but most accounts agree it did begin there, in Guangdong province, most likely on a farm. The World Health Organization was first alerted when China announced an outbreak of a mysterious respiratory illness all along the province, reporting 305 deaths.

On this day, March 15, in 2003, following the spread of the infectious disease to neighboring Asian countries, the WHO issued a health alert and began tracking SARS outbreaks.

SARS is not very dangerous to those with strong immune system, and among the cases reported seems to cause the most fatalities among sufferers aged 65 or older. Thanks for the quick and resolute efforts of the World Health Organization and the international community, the deadly disease was isolated and contained. It is not eradicated, and thought to be able to return, but no recent outbreaks have been recorded.