How is Meningococcal disease spread?
Meningococcal disease is transmitted through the air via droplets of respiratory secretions and direct contact with an infected person. Direct contact, for these purposes, is defined as oral contact with shared items such as cigarettes or drinking glasses or through intimate contact such as kissing.
The early symptoms usually associated with Meningococcal disease include fever, severe headache, stiff neck, rash, nausea, vomiting and lethargy and may resemble the flu. Because the disease progresses rapidly, often in as little as 12 hours, students are urged to seek medical care immediately if they experience two or more of these symptoms concurrently and the symptoms are progressing rapidly.
Evidence shows living in close quarters (such as residence halls) increases risk for Meningococcal disease compared to the general population. Although anyone can come in contact with the bacteria that causes Meningococcal disease, data also indicates certain social behaviors, such as exposure to passive and active smoking, bar patronage and excessive alcohol consumption may put students at increased risk for the disease. Patients with respiratory infections, compromised immunity, those in close contact to a known case, and travelers to endemic areas of the world are also at increased risk. Cases and outbreaks usually occur in the late winter and early spring when school is in session.
Avoid crowded areas such as parties, especially in crowded, overheated buildings/rooms, avoid smoking and second-hand smoke.
Get adequate rest, eat a balanced diet and exercise.
Avoid excessive alcohol and excessive stress.
Always wash hands, cover your nose and mouth when sneezing/coughing, and use your own eating utensils.
Entering college students, particularly those living in dormitories or residence halls.
Undergraduate students 25 years of age or under who request vaccination in order to decrease their risk for the disease (and who are not pregnant).
Students with medical conditions that compromise immunity (e.g. HIV, absent spleen, antibody deficiency).
Students traveling to areas of the world with endemic Meningococcal disease.
Data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) demonstrate increasing incidence of outbreaks on college campuses. Data further suggests that sub-populations of college students are at increased risk for Meningococcal disease. Pre-exposure vaccination enhances immunity to four strains of meningococcus that cause 65-70 percent of invasive disease and therefore reduces a students risk for disease. Development of immunity post-vaccination requires 7-10 days.
The vaccine is very safe and adverse reactions are mild and infrequent, consisting primarily of redness and pain at the site of injection lasting up to two days. If you have any additional questions about meningitis, symptoms, prevention, etc., you may call the Nurse Consult at 438-7676.
1. Visit the web resource pages listed below for more information on meningitis. You can also visit the Health Stop Resource Center, 228 SSB, to pick up information on meningitis.
2. Many cases may be prevented by vaccination. This is available at the Student Health Service and the cost is currently $89 (price may vary depending on availability and cost of the vaccine). If you decide to request vaccination, call for an Appointment at 438-2778.
3. For additional questions about meningitis, you may call the Nurse Consult at 438-7676.
The following web sites also have information about meningitis:
| Center for Disease Control and Prevention |
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http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dbmd/diseaseinfo/meningococcal_g.htm |
| American College Health Association |
| National Meningitis Association |
