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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 cause 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 OF BACTERIAL MENINGITIS?
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High fever
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Severe headache
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Rash or purple patches on skin
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Vomiting
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Light sensitivity
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Stiff neck
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Confusion and sleepiness
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Nausea
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Lethargy
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Seizures
There may be a rash of tiny, red/purple spots caused by bleeding under the skin.
These can occur anywhere on the body.
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 BACTERIAL MENINGITIS DISEASE TRANSMITTED?
The disease is transmitted when people exchange saliva (such as by kissing or
sharing drinking containers, utensils, cigarettes, toothbrushes, etc.) or come in
contact with respiratory or throat secretions.
HOW DO YOU INCREASE YOUR RISK
OF CONTRACTING BACTERIAL MENINGITIS?
There is an added risk to contracting bacterial meningitis through the following
factors:
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Being exposed to saliva through kissing or sharing cigarettes, water
bottles, eating utensils, food, etc.
