Meningitis
The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) of the Centers for Diseases Control and the American Academy of Pediatrics have recommended that college students consider immunization with the meningococcal vaccine to prevent Meningococcal disease. The American College Health Association has recommended that colleges and universities inform all students about the disease and educate students about the availability of a safe and effective vaccine.
In an effort to better serve you, the Student Health Center would like to provide you with the following information about Meningococcal disease and its prevention with the vaccine:
- Meningococcal disease is caused by the bacterium N. meningitidis and is a leading cause of meningitis and blood-borne infection among teens and young adults. Approximately 1 in 5 victims dies despite antibiotic treatment, often within the first 24 hours of the onset of symptoms.
- The disease spreads through the air through respiratory secretions as well as by direct contact with a carrier by kissing, sharing drinking glasses, etc.
- College students are at a higher risk. Studies have suggested that close living quarters, exposure to active and passive smoking, alcohol consumption, and bar patronage increase the risk of getting Meningococcal disease.
- The incidence of invasive Meningococcal infection is three times greater for students living on campus than those living off campus.
- Over 3,000 cases occur per year in the US and are caused by various subgroups of the N. meningitidis bacterium such as C, Y, B, A, W-135.
How Can Your Protect Yourself?
Based on the possibility of increased risk, students entering Western are advised to strongly consider the Meningococcal vaccine as a way to reduce their risk for potentially fatal Meningococcal disease. And, because meningococcal meningitis is mainly caused by 5 different types of meningococcal bacteria, two separate meningitis vaccines are necessary to be fully immunized against the disease: MenACWY and MenB. While many adolescents and young adults have received the MenACWY vaccine as part of their regular immunizations, few have received the MenB vaccine.
Antibody levels achieved during immunization rapidly decline over two to three years. Even if you have already received the meningococcal vaccine, revaccination should be considered if the vaccine was administered more than five years ago.
We urge you to strongly consider vaccination with either your family doctor, pediatrician or at the Student Health Center. The Student Health Center offers the meningococcal vaccine (MenACWY). Charges for the vaccination are put directly on your student account. The MenB vaccine is available at most pharmacies. The MenB vaccine can be expensive so check with your health insurance carrier to see if it is covered.
Please call (360) 650-3400 to schedule an appointment at the Student Health Center if you wish to receive the vaccine. Students who are under age 18 should discuss getting vaccinated with their parent(s) or guardian and can receive the vaccine at Student Health Center with written parental or guardian permission.
Meningitis is caused by bacteria that can infect the areas around the brain, spinal cord, or the bloodstream. Symptoms include stiff neck, headache, and high fever. While it’s rare, infection can lead to brain damage, lasting disability and disfigurement. The disease spreads through the air through respiratory secretions as well as by direct contact with a carrier by kissing, sharing drinking glasses, etc.
Approximately 1 in 5 victims dies despite antibiotic treatment, often within the first 24 hours of the onset of symptoms.
College students are at a higher risk. Studies have suggested that close living quarters, exposure to active and passive smoking, alcohol consumption, and bar patronage increase the risk of getting Meningococcal disease.
Meningococcal Disease Strain B—Don't Assume!
Meningococcal disease strain B, commonly referred to as MenB, is the most common cause of bacterial meningitis on college campuses. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend being vaccinated against meningitis B. Do not make the mistake and think that the meningitis vaccination you received in high school will protect you—it does not.
Two separate meningitis vaccines are necessary to be fully immunized against the disease: MenACWY and MenB. While many adolescents and young adults have received the MenACWY vaccine as part of their regular immunizations, few have received the MenB vaccine. Make sure you have BOTH meningitis vaccines to fully protect yourself and those around you.
How Can You Help Protect Yourself?
We urge you to strongly consider vaccination with your health care provider, local health department or here at the Student Health Center.
The Student Health Center offers the meningococcal vaccine (MenACWY). Charges for the vaccination are put directly on your student account. The MenB vaccine is available at most pharmacies. Check with your health insurance carrier to see if it is covered.