Concentrated vapors from botanical essential oils are inhaled to prevent, treat and cure infections of the respiratory pathogens causing Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome ("SARS"). These vapors are inhaled as a practical method to reduce the risks of infection by the pathogens causing SARS in crowded public places. These vapors are also inhaled as a practical method to reduce the risks of infection by unknown, and unpredictable, respiratory pathogens that may be present in public places. The essential oils have antiseptic properties, are safe to inhale, and include, but are not limited to, the essential oils from Eucalyptus globulus, Melaleuca alternifolia, Eucalyptus citriodora, and Eucalyptus radiata. Convenient hand-held inhaler apparatus are provided for the inhalation of concentrated vapors from the antiseptic essential oils and other substances. The antiseptic essential oils have selected antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal properties.