| In the spring of 2003, China was struck by a sudden outbreak of
severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS). In the weeks that followed,
32 countries and regions reported SARS cases. Worldwide, SARS infected
more than 8,000 people, over 800 of whom died.
China was the hardest-hit area. In a sense it was the frontline
in the global war against SARS.
Under the threat of SARS, the Chinese people manifested unusual
calm and strength. They remained strong in their resolve, encouraging
and supporting each other in various ways.
As quickly as the disease exploded, the world witnessed an equally
rapid response in fighting SARS, accompanied by great achievements
in China.
The united will of the people proved to be the most powerful
weapon in combating SARS.
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