**Question:** The earliest case of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) was reported in -

A. 2002
B. 2003
C. 2004
D. 2005

**Correct Answer:** B. 2003

**Core Concept:**
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) is a viral illness caused by the SARS coronavirus (SARS-CoV). It primarily affects the respiratory system and can lead to severe pneumonia and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). SARS emerged in late 2002 and early 2003, causing a global outbreak.

**Why the Correct Answer is Right:**
The SARS epidemic began in 2002 in Guangdong, China, where the first case was identified. The virus then spread to other parts of China and to countries worldwide. The World Health Organization (WHO) declared SARS a global public health emergency in March 2003, and the outbreak was eventually controlled due to international coordination and public health measures. The correct answer is 2003 because that is the year when the SARS epidemic was officially recognized and responded to by the international community.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect:**
A. 2002: This is too early, as the first case was identified in late 2002.
C. 2004: This is too late, as the epidemic was contained by 2003.
D. 2005: This is too late, as the epidemic was officially declared over in 2003.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect:**
A. 2002: This is too early, as the first case was identified in late 2002.
C. 2004: This is too late, as the epidemic was contained by 2003.
D. 2005: This is too late, as the epidemic was officially declared over in 2003.

**Clinical Pearls:**
1. SARS is a viral illness caused by the SARS-CoV, which was first identified in 2002 in Guangdong, China.
2. The World Health Organization (WHO) declared the SARS epidemic a global health emergency in March 2003 and coordinated global efforts to control the outbreak.
3. Understanding the timeline of the SARS epidemic is essential for appreciating the role of international cooperation in combating infectious diseases.