Although the University of Hawaii at Hilo has not had any reported cases of meningitis on campus, this letter is to inform all potential students that they should be aware that outbreaks of meningitis and blood infections due to the bacterium Neisseria meningitidis have risen on college campuses in recent years. Meningitis is a serious and potentially fatal disease cause by either viruses or bacteria. It can affect the brain and spinal cord and lead to permament disabilities such as hearing loss and brain damage.
Symptoms can include stiff neck, headache, nausea, vomiting and rash.
The bacterial form of the disease progresses rapidly so early diagnosis and treatment are important. There is a type B meningitis for which the vaccine is not effective. The American College Health Association is now recommending that college students under the age of 30 consider vaccination against meningococcal disease. UHH students are encouraged to have the vaccine done by their private doctor before they come on campus. Please let the nurse know that you are interested in the vaccine Menomune and she will inform you of the purchasing procedure.