Suspected SARS case in Co Mayo

Doctors were today treating a suspected case of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (Sars) in Co Mayo.

The middle-aged man, who recently returned from the Far East, was taken to Mayo General Hospital in Castlebar after he showed signs of the flu-like virus.

The Western Health Board said the man, who is from Mayo, was not seriously ill.

Last night it was confirmed that two other people being treated in Dublin hospitals did not have the virus.

The symptoms of Sars are a high temperature, ‘flu-like symptoms and a cough.

People travelling to affected areas in Hong Kong, Vietnam, Singapore and Guandong Province in China are being advised to be aware of the symptoms and seek medical advice if they become ill during their trip or within 10 days of leaving the area.

The National Disease Surveillance Centre is investigating suspected cases of Sars in Ireland.