In an email sent to community members Thursday, University Health Center director Sharon McMullen warned both community members and weekend visitors that eight cases of Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) have been reported in Southwest Michigan “not far from” Notre Dame’s campus.
In the email, McMullen encouraged people to take precautions against the mosquitos.
“Anyone outdoors between dusk and dawn is urged to apply an insect repellent that contains 20% to 50% of the active ingredient DEET to exposed skin and clothing,” she said in the email.
Furthermore McMullen said in the email individuals should avoid being outdoors at dawn and dusk, which are heightened times of mosquito activity; clothe themselves in garments with long sleeves and long pants and are light-colored; use nets or fans over any place they are eating food outside; cover windows and doors to prevent mosquitos from entering buildings and empty standing water from places mosquitos are likely to lay eggs.
“Chills, fever, malaise and joint or muscle pain” are all symptoms of EEE, the email said. McMullen also said in the email individuals younger than 15 and older than 50 are the most at risk for severe disease. As a precaution, the Hammes Notre Dame Bookstore has insect repellant for sale.
