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Meningitis
What is
meningitis?
Meningitis,
often referred to as spinal meningitis by the general public, is an
infection (viral or bacterial) of the layers of tissue which cover the brain
and spinal cord. Meningococcal meningitis is a particularly severe form of
meningitis caused by the bacteria Neisseria meningitidis.
Symptoms include: Fever, severe headache, stiffness of the neck, nausea and
maybe vomiting, and a skin rash that looks like small, purplish red spots.
How is it
transmitted?
It is spread by
direct contact, as in coughing, sneezing, kissing, sharing a drink, sharing
a cigarette, and immediate sharing of unwashed eating utensils.
Why does it concern me?
There
have been some recent cases of
meningococcal
meningitis within the University of Wisconsin system and Wisconsin public
school system. It is important that students understand that living
within close proximity with other students (residence halls, houses and
apartments) can put you at a slightly higher risk. Getting early
medical advice when a person has a fever, stiff neck and headache,
especially when meningitis has been reported in the community, can be
lifesaving
What
can I do to protect myself ?
The Student Health Center does
offer students the
Meningococcal Vaccine. It is the
recommendation of the Student Health Center that all freshman college
students and students living in resident halls be vaccinated. The cost
of the Vaccine is $85.00 for students.
For more information on the
Meningococcal Vaccine. PDF
file.
Other thing you can do.
1. Avoid sharing utensils or drinks.
2.
Practice good hygiene techniques.
3.
Studies also indicate that avoidance of smoking,
crowded bars, and alcohol excess may reduce the risk of
disease transmission.
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