The Ministry of National Defense (MND) yesterday said nine cases of SARS-like infections have been discovered in the military. But whether the personnel really have severe acute respiratory syndrome or other diseases with similar symptoms has yet to be determined by medical authorities.
Rear Admiral Wu Shao-bai (
Wu did not explain, however, where the nine cases had been discovered and how they are being treated.
It was the first time since the breakout of the disease that the ministry has admitted to the discovery of as many as nine cases of SARS-like infections in the military.
Before yesterday, there had been sporadic news reports about soldiers suspected to have been infected with the disease and their unit members quarantined as a result. The military however, had ruled out the possibility that the cases had any connections with SARS.
Wu's revelation of nine cases of SARS-like infections yesterday indicated that the real conditions could be much more serious than initially reported.
"The nine cases have been reported to medical authorities according to standard operation procedures. We have not tried to hide anything," the official said.
Wu said that to date, there have been 21 home quarantines and 136 service members who have been quarantined for possible exposure to suspected SARS carriers.
To keep the situation under control, Wu said, the military medical bureau has set up a rapid response team to stay ready around the clock.
"Across the country, we have put 13 chemical companies and 25 medical companies on standby for immediate participation in local disinfection and disease control jobs," he said.
Minister of National Defense Tang Yau-ming (
"Tang has told us that the fight against the SARS is like a war," he said.
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