The American College Health Association recommends that college students consider vaccination to reduce their risk for this disease. Meningitis is an inflammation of the lining surrounding the brain and spinal cord. This condition can be caused by several different organisms such as bacteria and viruses.
Viral meningitis is more common and usually occurs in the late spring and summer.
Signs and symptoms of viral meningitis may include stiff neck, headache, nausea, vomiting and rash. Most cases of viral meningitis run a short, uneventful course. Since the causative agent is a virus, antibiotics are not effective. Persons who have had contact with an individual with viral meningitis, may require treatment for symptoms. Bacterial meningitis occurs rarely and sporadically throughout the year, however is more prevalent in late winter and early spring.