Three Appalachian State students have mumps, officials confirm

WATAUGA COUNTY, N.C. — Three Appalachian State students who live off-campus in Watauga County have the mumps, health officials said Friday.

All three students with the virus are being treated and have isolated themselves from other students, according to the university.

“Officials from the university have been working in close coordination with state and county health officials, are sharing information, and taking swift and appropriate action in response to these diagnoses," said AppHealthCare Health Director Jennifer Greene. "All students have been pleasant, respectful and willing to isolate themselves from others in order to reduce the possibility of spreading the disease.”

Channel 9′s Dave Faherty spoke with students who said they got an email on their phones alerting them about mumps and the precautions to take.

Spring break for students starts Monday so this health scare comes as students are packing to leave for the break.

“It just made me want to keep washing my hands and making sure that we stay healthy and on top of our game so no one gets sick around campus," said student Hannah Rhyne.

Many students said they got the MMR vaccine for mumps, but said they won’t be taking any chances with the cases at the university.

“I feel like most people are vaccinated for it. But of course, some people don’t believe in vaccinations," said student Jack Whiteman.

The virus can spread just by touching a contaminated surface and through close contact, officials said.

This is the second college in our area to have mumps cases. Last month, Winthrop University alerted students to a case of the mumps there.

Check back with wsoctv.com for updates.

NC State student self-quarantined after study abroad program suspended amid coronavirus outbreak NC State student self-quarantined after study abroad program suspended amid coronavirus outbreak

Read more top trending stories on wsoctv.com:

• Man who murdered NoDa sandwich shop co-owner stole $100 from him, warrants say
• Charlotte events cancel, make changes due to coronavirus concerns
• Pair arrested after worker shot during robbery at popular Charlotte restaurant
• FORECAST: Snow in mountains, blustery winds in metro ahead of sunny, dry weekend
• 'It hit home hard’: Anti-violence advocate’s son killed in Charlotte shooting

© 2020 Cox Media Group