This information is being provided to all new college students in
the state of Texas. Bacterial Meningitis is a serious, potentially
deadly disease that can progress extremely fast - so take utmost caution.
It is an inflammation of the membranes that surround the brain and
spinal cord. The bacteria that causes meningitis can also infect the
blood. This disease strikes about 3,000 Americans each year, including
100-125 on college campuses, leading to 5-15 deaths among college
students every year. There is a treatment, but those who survive may
develop severe health problems or disabilities.
What are the symptoms?
- High fever
- Rash or purple patches on skin
- Light sensitivity
- Confusion and sleepiness
- Lethargy
- Severe headache
- Vomiting
- Stiff neck
- Nausea
- Seizures
There may be a rash of tiny, red-purple spots caused by bleeding
under the skin. These can occur anywhere on the body.
The more symptoms, the higher the risk, so when these symptoms appear
seek immediate medical attention.
How is bacterial meningitis diagnosed?
- Diagnosis is made by a medical provider and is usually based on
a combination of clinical symptoms and laboratory results from spinal
fluid and blood tests.
- Early diagnosis and treatment can greatly improve the likelihood
of recovery.
How is the disease transmitted?
- The disease is transmitted when people exchange saliva (such as
by kissing, or by sharing drinking containers, utensils, cigarettes,
toothbrushes, etc.) or come in contact with respiratory or throat
secretions.
How do you increase your risk of getting bacterial meningitis?
- Exposure to saliva by sharing cigarettes, water bottles, eating
utensils, food, kissing, etc.
- Living in close conditions (such as sharing a room/suite in a
dorm or group home).
What are the possible consequences of the disease?
- Death (in 8 to 24 hours from perfectly well to dead)
- Permanent brain damage
- Kidney failure
- Learning disability
- Hearing loss, blindness
- Limb damage (fingers, toes, arms, legs) that requires amputation
- Gangrene
- Coma
- Convulsions
Can the disease be treated?
- Antibiotic treatment, if received early, can save lives and chances
of recovery are increased. However permanent disability or death
can still occur.
- Vaccinations are available and should be considered for:
Those living in close quarters
College students 25 years old or younger
- Vaccinations are effective against 4 of the 5 most common bacterial
types that cause 70% of the disease in the U.S. (but does not protect
against all types of meningitis).
- Vaccinations take 7-10 days to become effective, with protection
lasting 3-5 years.
- The cost of vaccine varies, so check with your health care provider.
- Vaccination is very safe - most common side effects are redness
and minor pain at injection site for up to two days.
- Vaccination is available at your health care provider.
How can I find out more information?
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