|
WHAT IS MENINGITIS?
Meningitis is an inflammation of the lining of the brain
and spinal cord caused by either viruses or bacteria. Identifying whether
virus or bacterium causes a specific case is important because the severity
of the illness and the treatment differ. Viral meningitis is generally
less sever and usually follows an uneventful course. Bacterial meningitis
is potentially life-threatening and progresses quickly. Bacterial meningitis
comes in two forms. Meningococcal meningitis causes inflammation of
the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord that is caused by
the bacteria Neisseria meningitis, also known as meningococcus. The
infection can lead to permanent disabilities, such as hearing loss and
brains damage. Despite antibiotic treatment, 10% of people with meningococcal
meningitis die each year from the disease. Meningococcemia meningitis
is the presence of bacteria in the blood. It can lead to kidney and
heart failure, and like meningococcal meningitis, can result in sever
disability and death.
WHO IS AT RISK FOR MENINGITIS?
Annually Meningitis strikes about 3,000 Americans
and claims as many as 300 lives. Between 100 -125 cases occur on college
campuses every year and 5 to 15 college students die each year as a
result. Meningitis cases among teenagers and young adults have more
than doubled since 1991. During the 1990's frequency of out breaks rose
on U.S. colleges and universities.
Meningitis can strike at any age;however, certain groups have a greater
risk for contracting the disease: College students, particularly freshman,
who live in campus residence halls. Behavioral and social aspects of
college life appear to be risk factors as well. Also at increased risk
for meningoccal disease are travelers to certain hyperendemic or epidemic
countries (such as Sub-Saharan Africa), people with certain immune deficiencies,
and household or institutional contacts with infected individuals.
|
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS and HOW IS IT SPREAD?
Meningococcal bacteria
is transmitted through direct contact with infected individuals or
through air via droplets of respiratory secretions. Meningitis usually
peaks in late winter and early spring, overlapping flu season, and
symptoms can easily be mistaken for flu. Symptoms include fever, severe
headache, stiff neck, rash, nausea, vomiting, light sensitivity and
lethargy. Because the infection progresses quickly, students should
seek medical care immediately if two or more of these symptoms occur
at one time. If untreated, meningitis can lead to shock and death
within hours of the first symptoms.
IS THERE A WAY TO HELP PROTECT AGAINST MENINGITIS?
Vaccination can provide protection against four strains of the disease
(serogroups A, C, Y, W-135) that cause about 70% of cases in the U.S.
The vaccine is safe, with mild and infrequent side effects, such as
redness and swelling at the injection site and lasting up to 2 days.
Following vaccination, immunity develops within 7 to 10 days and remains
effective for approximately 3 to 5 years. As with any vaccine, vaccination
against meningitis may not protect 100% of all susceptible individuals
but has been proven to create antibodies in over 90% of adults studied.
The American College Health Association (ACHA) has adopted the recommendation
of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) of the
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which states that
college students, particularly freshman living in residence halls,
be educated about meningococcal meningitis and the potential benefit
of vaccination. Other undergraduate students wishing to reduce their
risk of meningitis can also choose to be vaccinated.
The Saint Mary's College Health Service offers the meningitis vaccine,
Menomune. No appointment is necessary.
WHAT ELSE CAN YOU DO?
To maximize your body's
own immune response, eat a balanced diet
and get plenty of rest and exercise. Avoid cigarettes and excessive
use of alcohol. Specifically, do not make a habit of sharing drinks
and cigarettes.
|
