Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) is a viral respiratory illness caused by the SARS coronavirus that emerged in China in 2002. SARS is characterized by fever, cough, and difficulty breathing, and can lead to severe respiratory distress and death in some cases. Research in this area focuses on understanding the transmission, pathogenesis, and treatment of SARS, as well as developing strategies for prevention and control of future outbreaks. Strategies include developing effective antiviral medications, vaccines, and public health measures to contain the spread of the virus.