Meningitis

Meningitis is an infectious disease that affects college students, as well as adults and children. The number of cases of meningitis in the college population is increasing. Although researchers are trying to discover the reason for the increase, they believe that college lifestyle plays a significant role. Decreased sleep, irregular eating patterns, residence hall living, cigarette smoking etc., have a negative effect on the body’s immune system. This in turn makes college students more susceptible to illness.

Meningitis affects the spinal cord and brain. The membrane around the brain and spinal cord becomes inflamed. This inflammation can cause symptoms including high fever, headache, stiff neck, vomiting, sleepiness, confusion and a rash. Symptoms of meningitis are often mistaken for the flu; however, meningitis symptoms worsen much more quickly.

There are two common types of meningitis. The more common type is viral meningitis. This type is not usually life threatening. It occurred most frequently in the late summer and early fall. It cannot be treated with antibiotics and there are no vaccinations to prevent it. Viral meningitis usually does not require hospitalization; however, it is a serious infection. Proper rest, nutrition, hydration and medication for the headache and fever are important for a full recovery. Symptoms begin within 10 days after exposure to the virus and last 10 days or less.

Bacterial meningitis is seen less frequently and is much more dangerous. If not treated, it may cause permanent damage or death. Bacterial meningitis occurs throughout the year. It requires immediate treatment with antibiotics, and hospitalization. The bacterial form of meningitis is vaccine-preventable. Meningitis vaccination (Menomune or Menactra) is highly effective against the five most common types of meningococcal bacteria: A, B, C, Y, and W-135. Testing will be done upon hospitalization to determine which type of bacteria is causing the illness.

Meningitis is not spread through casual contact. It is spread by respiratory droplets from an infected person’s cough or sneeze, or from the saliva of an infected person (through kissing, drinking from the same glass, sharing a cigarette, etc.).

Most meningitis infections can be avoided by a healthy lifestyle. With the busy schedule of college students it is important to eat a healthy diet, drink plenty of water, get enough sleep, and exercise. Other ways to stay healthy include frequent hand washing, discontinue smoking and limit your exposure to secondhand smoke, avoid alcohol and do not share glasses, toothbrushes and other personal items.

Menactra, (meningitis vaccine) is currently available at Student Health Services. The cost is $85.00 and the vaccine provides lifetime immunity.