What is meningitis?
- Meningitis is a rare but potentially fatal infection of the covering of the brain and spinal cord.
- It can occur in two forms: bacterial or viral. (Bacterial meningitis is typically more serious)
Who is at risk for Bacterial Meningitis?
- Meningitis can strike at any age; however, certain groups have a greater risk for contracting the disease:
- College students who live in campus residence halls
- Anyone in close contact with a known case
- Anyone with a compromised immune system
How is Bacterial Meningitis transmitted?
- Meningococcal bacteria are transmitted through air droplets and direct contact with person already infected with the disease.
- Direct contact also occurs with shared items, such as cigarettes or drinking glasses or through intimate contact such as kissing.
Signs and Symptoms of Bacterial Meningitis
- High fever
- Rash
- Neck stiffness
- Lethargy
- Nausea
- Sensitivity to light
- Vomiting
- Severe headache
- Meningitis usually peaks in late winter and early spring, overlapping flu season and symptoms can easily be mistaken for the flu.
- Because the infection progresses quickly, students should seek medical attention immediately.
- If untreated, meningitis can lead to shock and death within hours of the first symptoms.
Is there a vaccine to help prevent Bacterial Meningitis?
- A safe, effective vaccine is available
- As with any vaccine, vaccination against meningitis may not protect 100% of all susceptible individuals. Therefore, if a person has symptoms, they need to be seen, even if vaccinated.