The national news these days is filled with panic over Ebola cases reported in the United States. Thousands in West Africa have already died from the terrible virus, and fears are on the rise now that the first American has succumbed to the terrible disease. It really begs the question, should students be concerned over a possible outbreak?

The short answer is no. There have been no reported cases of Ebola near the state of Illinois and the CDC has many measures in place to prevent outbreaks. Even airlines crews have been trained to quarantine a possibly infected passenger. The chance of a Hinsdale Central student catching the virus is very low, unless a student has recently been in West Africa. Despite all of this, students should still take measures to protect themselves from diseases like Ebola.

Symptoms of Ebola usually mimic the flu. Fever, muscle weakness, sore throat, and headaches are common symptoms. Those who are afflicted by these aliments should immediately visit the doctor. However, having these symptoms does not necessarily mean Ebola is the cause.

Ebola itself is spread through direct contact with bodily fluids. These include substances such as blood, sweat, tears and saliva. Before eating, students should do their best to wash their hands and purge all possible germs. Students should also try to do their best not to share food or beverages.

The major news networks often tend to over-exaggerate the virility of the disease. Students following the news should be aware of this fact so that widespread panic does not circulate in the school environment. It is important for students to stay calm and find out more about Ebola before alarming others.

In the meantime, sleep soundly knowing that thousands of scientists are working around the clock to find vaccines and treatments for Ebola. Students interested in biology should definitely research the virus and educate their peers on what is being done to combat it. The best weapon against any disease is knowledge.

A few students shared their thoughts on Ebola.

“I’m pretty aware of the Ebola outbreak in Texas,” said Tommy Gruchala, junior. “I’m not really worried about Ebola at the current moment. It may have killed a lot of people, but diseases like AIDS have been around for longer and have killed more people. People should use more common sense and remember that Ebola is not in Illinois yet.”

One student offered his opinion on what would happen if Ebola were to hit Hinsdale Central.

“We’d all probably be quarantined and tested,” said Michael Dietrich, junior. “Students should keep trying to stay healthy. Unfortunately, our school doesn’t seem to do much to educate us more on diseases like Ebola. I mostly get my news about the disease online via Facebook or Youtube.”

Generally, students do not believe that Ebola is a huge threat. We should do our best to stay vigilant as this disease takes its course in the United States, but let us remember that it is important to be calm and rational.