Ignorance and confusion is frightening

The lack of proper information in relation to Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) is disconcerting in itself, but the official bungling is utterly frightening.

A week ago yesterday, a Chinese childcare worker presented at St Vincent's Hospital, Dublin, but was not considered sufficiently ill to be admitted.

Instead, she was given a surgical mask and sent back to the Dun Laoghaire hostel where she was staying.