Alexis Arenas-Andrade
Reporter
The total cases of Ebola are at 8,997 as of Oct. 15, 2014 with 4,493 total deaths world-wide.
Ebola, previously known as Ebola hemorrhagic fever, is a rare and deadly disease caused by infection with one of the Ebola virus strains.
“This outbreak is the first Ebola epidemic the world has ever known,” stated by the Center of Disease Control and Prevention.
The total cases of Ebola are at 8,997 as of Oct. 15, 2014 with 4,493 total deaths world-wide. The majority of the deaths have taken place in West Africa; however, there have been a total of three confirmed cases along with one death in the United States, in which these cases have been controlled.
This virus is not airborne, “I do not believe that a casual cough or sneeze can transmit this virus. It takes contact with the usual body fluids.” stated Peter Broglio the Division Chair of Life science and Physical Education
Crowder has international students who come from West Africa the epicenter of this spread. “We have not had any students touched by Ebola. Most of our students from Africa, specifically West Africa, have been here for one to two years and have not been home since they arrived. It is my understanding that the incubation period is no longer than 21 days so these students are not a risk,” stated Sarah Horine, the Coordinator of International and A+ Programs.
“I wasn’t too worried about the situation until the first reported cases in Dallas, Texas.” Crowder student Coleman Douglas said about this Ebola outbreak. Different media outlets have reported on various information about Ebola causing there to be a panic frenzy among the population. “I feel they are blowing up the situation out of proportion.” stated Douglas.
The subject of Ebola hits close to home for Mo Diop, an international Crowder student from West Africa.
“I have family back in Senegal, and they are all fine, thank God, but they have been telling me about this disease spreading, and it concerns me,” said Diop, who been keeping in contact with his family to check up on them and to see how this virus is spreading throughout the West African countries.
“As Americans I don’t think we need to worry, as members of the international community, I feel like we need to be doing more.” stated Brogilo.
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