Despite constant media coverage, apathy is the general consensus regarding the West Nile Virus on campus.
But rightfully so. Physicians at the health center said there aren’t any cases at SMU and the risk of contracting a severe case of West Nile encephalitis is fairly low. Yet, they caution students to still be aware of the disease and how it spreads via various insects.
The West Nile virus was discovered in 1937 when a woman in Uganda contracted the illness. West Nile Virus is spread by those flying syringes aptly called mosquitoes. Once infected, victims of the virus carrying blood suckers experience flu like symptoms or no symptoms at all. In rare cases though, the virus does cause West Nile encephalitis, which is a severe inflammation of the brain and often leads to death.
The risk of a fatal case of the illness is greatly multiplied in people older than 50. Human beings aren’t the only ones susceptible to the virus. Dead birds and sick livestock are often the first indications that the West Nile Virus has invaded an area.
Dallas County Health and Human Services reports that three blue jays and one crow have been killed by the disease. The city of Dallas has been spraying all during the month of August to combat mosquitoes and contain the virus.
There have been two confirmed cases of the West Nile virus and 26 others living in Dallas County are currently being tested.
“I was never really concerned about it,” said first year Chris Hall-Sheehy. “Its kind of a big risk but as long as I am on campus I’m OK. I’ve never been bit walking around campus.”
Junior Cy Haralson, said that from what he can see there aren’t many mosquitoes on campus. The philosophy and political science major says he “hasn’t thought about it one bit.”
The health center warns that students taking weekend road trips should be aware of their surroundings and the wildlife residing at their destination. If outdoors for long periods of time, students should cover as much skin as possible and use insect repellant. Students are also advised to stay clear of any standing water, as it can be a breeding ground for mosquitoes.
