Meningococcal Disease Fact Sheet
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Meningococcal disease is a rare but
potentially fatal infection caused by the Neisseria meningitidis
bacterium. Meningococcal disease takes the form of either: meningitis,
an infection and inflammation of the fluid found in the spinal
cord and surrounding the brain; or meningococcemia, an infection
of the blood. Meningococcal infection is spread through contact
with respiratory secretions when an infected person coughs or
sneezes. It is also spread by direct oral contact with an infected
person or with items contaminated by the infected person such
as cigarettes and drinking glasses.
Who is at risk?
- Anyone can develop meningococcal disease
- There are approximately 3,000 cases each year
resulting in 300 deaths
- One group—college freshmen living in dormitories—has
been found to be at a six fold higher risk compared to other
college students
- Approximately 100 to 125 cases of meningococcal
disease occur each year on college campuses resulting in 5 to
15 deaths.
What are the symptoms?
Initially, symptoms can be flu like but rapidly
and progressively worsen. Symptoms may include:
- Fever
- Severe headache and stiff neck
- Nausea and vomiting
- Sensitivity to bright light
- Rash
- Confusion and excess sleepiness
- Symptoms can progress rapidly, over 1-2
days or even hours.
What can I do to
prevent this disease?
Fortunately,
there are safe and effective vaccines available that can prevent
4 of the 5 most common strains of meningococcal bacteria. In persons
15-24 years of age, 70-80 per cent of cases of meningococcal disease
are caused by potentially vaccine preventable strains. A newer
form of the vaccine, called Menactra, offers a longer duration
of protection compared to Menomune. RIT requires that incoming
students who will be living in campus housing (including apartments)
be immunized against meningococcal infection.
Other ways to help prevent
the disease include:
- Avoid sharing cigarettes and beverage glasses
- Keep your immune system healthy by eating well and getting
enough sleep
- Use tissues and wash hands frequently
Where can I get
more information?
The SHC can answer questions and provide printed informational
materials. Also:
Centers
for Disease Control
CDC
Recomends Meningicoccal Vaccine for College Freshman and Adolescents
American
College Health Association
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