Meningitis: Frequently Asked Questions

What is meningitis?

Meningitis is an inflammation of the linings of the brain and spinal cord. Cases can be mild if caused by a virus, or more severe if caused by bacteria. Meningococcal meningitis is a type of bacterial meningitis that is rare, but can cause serious illness and death.

How is meningococcal meningitis spread?

Meningococcal disease is spread by close contact with oral or nasal secretions of an infected person, including kissing or sharing items such as eating utensils, drinking glasses or cigarettes. The bacteria cannot live outside the body for more than a few minutes, and it is not easily transmitted from an infected person through water, swimming pools, or casual contact in a classroom, dining facility, weight room, training room, or restroom, etc.

What are the symptoms?

The signs and symptoms of meningitis include high fever, neck pain and stiffness, severe headache, mental status changes (confusion, lethargy, etc.), vomiting, and rash. The initial symptoms resemble the flu. However, because the disease may progress rapidly, students are urged to seek medical care immediately if they experience two or more of these symptoms concurrently.

What happens if there is a meningitis case on campus?

University Health Services (UHS), Tang Center works closely with public health officials and infectious disease experts to identify campus members at risk. Those who feel they are at risk due to close contact with an infected person should call the Advice Nurse at (510) 643-7197 or come to the Tang Center for evaluation.

Is there a vaccine?

There are two meningococcal vaccines that can be provided for routine prevention. The vaccines are not used for treatment following an exposure and does not protect against every type of meningococcal bacteria or bacterial meningitis. For more information about meningitis, including vaccine recommendations, see Meningitis: Managing Meningococcal Disease in the College Populations. For a vaccine appointment, call (510) 643-7177. There is a fee for the vaccination.

Where can I get more information?

Meningitis: Managing Meningococcal Disease in the College Populations

Centers for Disease Control Meningitis webpage

UHS Advice Nurse: (510) 643-7197

Disclaimer: The information provided here is not intended to diagnose, treat or provide a second opinion on any health problem or disease. It is meant to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between an individual and his/her clinician.

Last revised: January, 2004

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