Student Receiving Treatment for Meningococcal Meningitis

Contact: George Mauzy, (740) 597-1794 or mauzy@ohio.edu

ATHENS, Ohio (May 16, 2001) -- Ohio University officials have confirmed that a student has been hospitalized and is being treated for meningococcal meningitis. University officials have notified the family and friends of the infected student.

Those who may be at risk of contracting the disease are being offered a prophylactic antibiotic that will lessen their chances of becoming infected, according to a spokesman for the Student Health Service.

This type of meningitis is a bacterial infection that causes severe inflammation of the membrane surrounding the brain and spinal cord. Symptoms include confusion, headaches, and high fever, which may appear two to 10 days after exposure. Vomiting, rashes, severe weakness and a stiff neck are also commonly seen.

Studies show that meningococcal meningitis bacteria can't live outside of the body more than a few minutes. Therefore, infection from the environment is not a threat. Direct exposure to an infected individual's respiratory secretions, such as by touching, kissing, sharing eating utensils or drinking from the same cup, is the usual means of spreading the disease.

Dr. John Cunningham, director of Ohio University's Hudson Health Center, said that casual contact, such as being near an infected person in classrooms, dining halls, bars, restrooms, swimming pools and showers does not pose a risk. However, Cunningham recommended that students who suspect they may have been exposed or who are experiencing symptoms of meningococcal meningitis should contact the health center immediately.

Despite the fact that between 5 and 10 percent of the population carries the disease's bacterium in their nasal and throat passages in a harmless state, meningococcal meningitis is a relatively rare disease that less than 1 percent of people contract.

Between two and 10 percent of those who contract the disease die from its symptoms and the recovery rate is directly associated with early detection. Because meningitis symptoms are similar to those of influenza, many cases are not reported in time.

Vaccinations to prevent meningococcal meningitis are available through health care providers and are recommended for those living in fraternity or sorority houses and residence halls. Other deterrents include a balanced diet, proper rest, exercise, frequent hand washing and avoiding upper respiratory illnesses and extreme stress.

Media Note: Please direct all media inquiries to George Mauzy or Leesa Brown, Media Services, (740) 597-1084.