Important information about Bacterial Meningitis
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 | 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. |
| Rash or purple patches on skin | Vomiting | |
| Light sensitivity | Stiff neck | |
| Confusion and sleepiness | Nausea | |
| Lethargy | Seizures |
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 t0 24 hours from perfectly well to dead | Lim damage (fingers, toes, arms, legs) that requires amputation |
| Permanent brain damage | |
| Kidney failure | Gangrene |
| Learning disability | Coma |
| Hearing loss, blindness | 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.
Contact your health care provider for vaccinations.
|
HOW CAN I FIND OUT MORE INFORMATION? |
Contact your own health care provider.
Contact your local or regional Texas Department of Health. The Brazoria County
office is at 432 E. Mulberry St., Angleton, Tx 77515, phone (281) 864-1484. The
Alvin office is at 310 E. House St., Phone (281) 585-3034.