2008 Woodie Awards
Meningitis medicine may save lives
Megan Watson
Issue date: 9/13/07 Section: News
- Page 1 of 1
Roommates share dishes, furniture, movies, clothing and textbooks but there are some pieces of shared life that they may prefer to remain separate. Germs and infections may be some of those pieces roommates do not want to share.
According to the American Health Association, between 100 and 125 cases of Meningitis occur on college campuses every year.
According to Medlineplus.com, Meningococcal Meningitis is "an infection that causes inflammation of the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord." It is a bacterial infection with many symptoms including a rash, pinpoint red spots, purple bruise-like areas, severe malaise (ill feeling), nausea, vomiting, stiff neck and sensitivity to light.
Early diagnosis is extremely important. Easy ways to reduce the risk of catching the disease include washing hands regularly and not sharing items. Kirkwood Community College Campus Nurse Lori Jeppson said, "Meningitis is a respiratory droplet, so not sharing glasses, toothbrushes, towels and kitchen utensils will reduce the risk."
Jeppson said she believes that getting the vaccination is a personal decision. "I suggest speaking to the family physician about it," she stated.
The vaccine gives immunity to only four of the strains of Meningitis. These four strains, however, are responsible for 65 to 70 percent of cases. After the vaccination, immunity develops within seven to 10 days.
Jeppson also added, "The vaccination is not fool proof and lasts for three to five years. It is very safe and there are very few reactions. It is a personal choice but the vaccination is a good way to go to prevent the disease."
Currently, Campus Health is providing Meningococcal Meningitis vaccines to incoming freshmen. There is a limited supply and a cost of $100. To set up an appointment, call Campus Health at 398-5588.
According to the American Health Association, between 100 and 125 cases of Meningitis occur on college campuses every year.
According to Medlineplus.com, Meningococcal Meningitis is "an infection that causes inflammation of the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord." It is a bacterial infection with many symptoms including a rash, pinpoint red spots, purple bruise-like areas, severe malaise (ill feeling), nausea, vomiting, stiff neck and sensitivity to light.
Early diagnosis is extremely important. Easy ways to reduce the risk of catching the disease include washing hands regularly and not sharing items. Kirkwood Community College Campus Nurse Lori Jeppson said, "Meningitis is a respiratory droplet, so not sharing glasses, toothbrushes, towels and kitchen utensils will reduce the risk."
Jeppson said she believes that getting the vaccination is a personal decision. "I suggest speaking to the family physician about it," she stated.
The vaccine gives immunity to only four of the strains of Meningitis. These four strains, however, are responsible for 65 to 70 percent of cases. After the vaccination, immunity develops within seven to 10 days.
Jeppson also added, "The vaccination is not fool proof and lasts for three to five years. It is very safe and there are very few reactions. It is a personal choice but the vaccination is a good way to go to prevent the disease."
Currently, Campus Health is providing Meningococcal Meningitis vaccines to incoming freshmen. There is a limited supply and a cost of $100. To set up an appointment, call Campus Health at 398-5588.
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