Meningitis is an infection of the brain that occurs when the meninges, or protective membrane that covers the brain and spinal column becomes inflamed, and spinal fluid become infected with bacteria, viruses, or fungi. Bacterial meningitis is fatal in up to15 percent of cases, unless treated by intravenous antibiotics in the very early stages. If there s a confirmed case among dorm mates, oral antibiotics are prescribed for everyone who has been in contact with the infected student.
Outbreaks usually occur in the late winter and early spring when school is in session.
Some people who survive the disease suffer hearing loss, mental retardation, and loss of limbs. The biggest problem with detecting meningitis is that the symptoms often mimic those of the flu, so they are ignored. Experts recommend that if all the flu-like symptoms exist along with a stiff neck, students are urged to seek medical care immediately. Bacterial meningitis progresses rapidly, causing irreparable harm often in as little as 12 hours. The only way to positively diagnose it is with a spinal tap.