[Comparison of epidemic characteristics between SARS in 2003 and COVID-19 in 2020 in Guangzhou]

Objective: By analyzing the epidemic characteristics and related indicators of SARS and COVID-19, to explore the reasons for the similarities and differences of the two epidemics, so as to provide reference for epidemic prevention and control. Methods: The general situation, clinical classification, activity history, contact history, family members' contact and incidence of the two infectious diseases in Guangzhou were collected and used to analyze the time characteristics, occupational characteristics, age characteristics and other key indicators of the two diseases, including the number of cases, composition ratio (%), mean, median, crude mortality, etc. Results: A total of 1 072 cases of SARS were included in the study. Three hundred and fifty three were severe cases with the incidence of 30.13%. Forty three cases of death were reported with a mortality rate of 4.01%. The average age was 46 years old, and 26.31% of the cases were medical staff. The interval time between first report to continuous zero reports was 129 days. As to COVID-19, a total of 346 cases were included. 58 of which were severe cases with the incidence of 16.67%. One case of death was reported with a mortality rate of 0.29%. The average age was 38 years old, and no hospital infection among medical staff was reported. The interval time between first report to continuous zero reports was 35 days. Conclusions: The prevention and control strategies for COVID-19 were more effective compared to that of SARS, and the emergency response procedures were worth to be evaluated and summarized.