Meningitis and Vaccination Information
What is Meningitis?
Meningitis is an inflammation (swelling) of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord which can be caused by viruses or bacteria. Meningococcal meningitis, one type of bacterial meningitis, is of particular concern because while uncommon, it does affect college-age students and the disease may progress rapidly if untreated.
How is it spread?
People spread bacterial meningitis by:
- sharing respiratory or throat secretions (saliva or spit) through coughing or kissing,
- lengthy contact (living together), or
- by coughing or sneezing while in close contact with others, who then breathe in the bacteria
College students are at higher risk due to:
- group living situations (college living centers)
- irregular sleep patterns
Symptoms
Early symptoms of the disease often mimic the flu, but once it starts, bacterial meningitis can progress very rapidly and cause death within 24-48 hours. Symptoms include sudden onset of:
- Stiff neck
- Fever
- Headache
There are often other symptoms, such as
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Photophobia (eyes being more sensitive to light)
- Altered mental status (confusion)
Treatment & Prevention
Treatment
Health care providers treat bacterial meningitis with antibiotics. It is important to start treatment as soon as possible.
Prevention Measures
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reports that vaccines are the most effective way to protect against certain types of bacterial meningitis. If you are not up-to-date on your vaccines or are unsure if you are, please call your health provider, the GVSU Family Health Center ((616) 331-9830), or the GVSU / Campus Health Center (616) 252-6030 to find out if you’re protected.
You can also help protect yourself and others from bacterial meningitis by maintaining healthy habits:
- Don’t smoke and avoid cigarette smoke
- Get plenty of rest
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick
Resources
For more information about meningococcal disease and/or immunization: