About Meningitis
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May 16, 2008
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Posted or edited: 02.19.07 ... PJC Information Services 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. Symptoms include:
» High fever, severe Headache
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
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.
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. Increased risk is brought on by activities such as:
» Exposure to saliva by sharing cigarettes, water bottles, eating utensils, food, kissing, etc.
Possible consequences of the disease include:
» Death (in eight to 24 hours)
Antibiotic treatment, if received early, can save lives and chances of recovery are increased. However, permanent disability or death can still occur.
Vaccinations are effective against four of the five most common bacterial types that cause 70 percent of the cases in the U.S. (but do not protect against all types of meningitis). Vaccinations take seven to 10 days to become effective, with protection lasting from three to five years. The cost of the vaccine varies, so check with your health care provider. Vaccination is very safe. The most common side effects are redness and minor pain at injection site for up to two days. For more information, contact your own health care provider or your local or regional Texas Department of Health office.
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