The following was developed by the Department of Health to answer commonly asked questions about the disease. Bacterial meningitis is an inflammation of the tissues covering the brain and spinal cord that is caused by infection with bacteria. Bacterial meningitis is a serious disease that can result in disability or death if not treated promptly.
Symptoms can include fever, severe headache, stiff neck, vomiting and a rash.
A single dose of meningitis vaccine protects against 4 of the 5 serogroups of the bacterium Neisseria meningitidis, a leading cause of bacterial meningitis. The immunization is effective for 3-5 years. The studies found no increased risk for college students at other grade levels. Other college students wishing to reduce their risk of bacterial meningitis can also choose to be vaccinated. Check with your student health center to receive the vaccine or a referral to a physician who can provide the vaccine.