Detecting the Vampire

By Casandra Vicario

We continue on this path toward Macabro XX, in which we will all be vampirized. How can you tell if your neighbor or someone close to you is a bloodsucker? Let's find out!

If we suspect that a vampire is buried in our local cemetery, pay close attention to the following signs:

• Around the grave there are holes the width of fingers.
• The soil has been disturbed.
• Constant presence of fog.
• Graves that have been moved or are collapsing.
• Footprints that lead toward a particular grave.
• There is no birdsong
• Strange noises or growls can be heard coming from the ground.

What should you look for in a corpse to confirm you're in the presence of a vampire?

• The body's eyes are open.
• It has sharp fangs.
• It has new nails or its hair has grown.
• The body shows flexibility in the knees and elbows.
• It shows no signs of decomposition.
• There is blood present on its mouth or in the coffin.
• Its mouth is open
• Upon examination, the liver is white

How do you identify a vampire among the living? Be very careful when your friend, crush, or kindly neighbor shows the following characteristics:

• Fangs.
• Red eyes.
• Long Nails
• Paleness
• Refuses to enter your house without an invitation.
• Has hair on the palms of their hands.
• Hates sunlight and you never see them during the day.
• You've never seen them eat

How can you tell when you or someone close to you is a victim of a vampire?

• Sleepwalking.
• Nightmares.
• Anemia.
• Fang marks on the neck or other parts of the body that aren't visible.
• Fatigue.
• Irritability.
• Weight and appetite loss.
• Hatred of garlic.

If you identify seven or more of these signs, stay calm, avoid going out at night, and call Dr. Van Helsing for help.

Bibliography: Matthew Bunson. The Vampire Encyclopedia. 2000. New York.

Zamora M.J. Vampiros. Guía de Supervivencia.2010. Spain.

Images taken from the internet.