Meningitis Form Page 2
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3Meningococcal Disease
Information Sheet
Information for college students and parents of children at residential schools and overnight camps
What is meningococcal disease?
Meningococcal disease is a severe bacterial infection of the bloodstream or meninges
(a thin lining covering the brain and spinal cord).
Who gets meningococcal disease?
Anyone can get meningococcal disease, but it is more common in infants and children.
For some college students, such as freshmen living in dormitories, there is an increased risk
of meningococcal disease. Between 100 and 125 cases of meningococcal disease occur
on college campuses every year in the United States; between five and 15 college students
die each year as result of infection.
Currently, no data is available regarding whether children at overnight camps or residential
schools are at the same increased risk for disease. However, these children can be in settings
similar to college freshmen living in dormitories. Other persons at increased risk include
household contacts of a person known to have had this disease, immuno-compromised people
and people traveling to parts of the world where meningitis is prevalent.
How is the meningococcus germ spread?
The meningococcus germ is spread by direct close contact with nose or throat discharges
of an infected person. Many people carry this particular germ in their nose and throat without
any signs of illness, while others may develop serious symptoms.
What are the symptoms?
High fever, headache, vomiting, stiff neck and a rash are symptoms of meningococcal disease.
Among people who develop meningococcal disease, 10–15 percent die in spite of treatment
with antibiotics. Of those who live, permanent brain damage, hearing loss, kidney failure, loss
of arms or legs or chronic nervous system problems can occur.
How soon do the symptoms appear?
The symptoms may appear two to 10 days after exposure, but usually within five days.
What is the treatment for meningococcal disease?
Antibiotics, such as penicillin G or ceftriaxone, can be used to treat people
with meningococcal disease.
Is there a vaccine to prevent meningococcal meningitis?
Yes, a safe and effective vaccine is available. The vaccine is 85 percent to 100 percent
effective in preventing four kinds of bacteria (serogroups A, C, Y, W-135) that cause about
70 percent of the disease in the United States.
Is the vaccine safe? Are there adverse side effects to the vaccine?
The vaccine is safe, with mild and infrequent side effects such as redness and pain at the
injection site lasting up to two days.
What is the duration of protection from the vaccine?
After vaccination, immunity develops within seven to 10 days and remains effective
for approximately three to five years. As with any vaccine, vaccination against meningitis
may not protect 100 percent of all susceptible individuals.
How do I get more information about meningococcal disease and vaccination?
Contact your family physician or your student health service. Additional information
is also available on the Websites of the New York State Department of Health,
health.state.ny.us
the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,
cdc.gov/ncid/dbmd/diseaseinfo;
and the American College Health Association,
.
Bureau of Communicable Disease Control, New York State Department of Health 7/2003
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