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A Look At Meningitis

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The Tampa Tribune

Published: September 25, 2007

What is meningitis?

Meningitis is an inflammation of the tissues that cover the brain and spinal cord. It can be caused by viruses or bacteria.

What is the difference between bacterial and viral meningitis?

Bacterial meningitis can result in weakened vision or hearing, brain damage, amputations and organ problems. It is more likely to result in death than viral meningitis, which is more common. Patients with viral meningitis often completely recover in less than two weeks. Patients with bacterial meningitis can die within days - or even hours - of contracting it.

How many people contract bacterial meningitis each year?

Bacterial meningitis affects about 3,000 Americans annually, and about 10 percent of the cases are fatal. Adolescents and young adults account for nearly 30 percent of cases. In Hillsborough County, 10 cases of bacterial meningitis were reported between 2005 and 2007. Rachel Futterman is the first on-campus student at the University of South Florida to fall ill from bacterial meningitis since 1993.

What are the symptoms?

Many people with bacterial meningitis think they have the flu because the symptoms are so similar. Symptoms include high fever, severe headache, stiff neck, rash, nausea and vomiting. Some patients develop a purple rash or have seizures.

What causes meningitis?

The bacterium Neisseria meningitides.

Who is at risk?

Adolescents and young adults are more at risk for meningitis than the general public. Living in crowded conditions - such as university dormitories - increases the risk for college students. Fatality rates are up to five times higher among 15- to 24-year-olds compared with other age groups.

Can it be prevented?

The Food and Drug Administration has approved a vaccine for people 11 to 55. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says immunization is the best method for prevention against bacterial meningitis.

Is the vaccine required for Florida college students?

State law requires colleges to give students information about meningitis and the availability of the vaccine. Students enrolled in colleges who will live in on-campus housing either must provide documentation they have had the vaccine or sign a waiver, acknowledging they have received information about meningitis but do not want the vaccine. State law does not require colleges to pay for the vaccinations.

Sources: National Meningitis Association, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, University of South Florida, Hillsborough County Health Department, www.msnbc.com

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