Yes, you should absolutely be concerned! The rate of Meningitis B is on the rise on many college campuses across the country. Students living in a dormitory have one of the highest risk factors for contracting this potentially deadly disease. If your student has other chronic health issues or is known to have immune system disorders, the risk is even higher. Meningitis B typically begins with cold or flu-like symptoms and rapidly progresses to a severe central nervous system and brain infection. Unfortunately, there is a 10% mortality rate in people who contract the disease, in addition to a 25% risk of serious long-term complications. The good news is that this severe illness can be prevented with a series of Meningitis B vaccines.