Vaccines are available to prevent Meningococcal Meningitis, a deadly bacterial infection of the tissue layer surrounding the brain and spinal cord (the meninges).
How do you get it?
Five main groups of bacteria can cause the infection: A, B, C, W-135, and Y. The bacteria are mainly spread by the transmission of oral secretions (e.g., kissing, sharing drinks, silverware, etc.). Once spread, they can travel to the meninges and cause meningitis.
Who is at risk?
Meningococcal, or bacterial meningitis is not common, but 5-10% of the population can carry the bacteria and spread it to others without ever showing symptoms of meningitis.
People living in close quarters such as residence halls have an increased risk of contracting meningitis.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms may include:
| Fever (sudden onset) | |
| Stiff neck (with pain upon movement) | |
| Headache | |
| Possibly in combination with: Nausea Vomiting Sensitivity to light Confusion |
Symptoms begin to show approximately three to seven days after infection.
What if I think I have meningitis?
During business hours: go directly to the Student Health Center
After business hours:
- On campus: call EST: 314-935-5555
- Off campus, call 911
How is it treated?
Early treatment with broad-spectrum antibiotics is crucial because Meningococcal meningitis can be fatal. The fatality rate is 10-15% even with appropriate medical care. Without treatment it is as high as 40%.
How can I protect myself?
Vaccines are available to prevent Meningococcal meningitis.
The primary vaccine
| Is required for entrance to most colleges and universities, including WashU Required for all freshmen and recommended or all students living in residence halls | |
| Guards against those cases of meningitis caused by strains A, C, W-135, and Y | |
| Approved by the Food and Drug Association (FDA) | |
| Recommended by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) | |
| Covered by most insurance companies | |
| Available at the Student Health Center Use the Student Health Portal to make an appointment. |
Second vaccine: Meningitis B
| Now protects against the B strain of bacteria responsible for several recent university outbreaks | |
| Meningitis B vaccine is not yet recommended by the CDC for widespread use However, CDC states anyone aged 16-23 can be vaccinated and encourages patients to make an appointment with their health care provider Now protects against the B strain of bacteria responsible for several recent university outbreaks | |
| Covered by most insurance companies including WashU Student Health Insurance Plan Check with your insurance company regarding coverage | |
| Available at the Student Health Center Make an appointment with your Student Health Center provider to discuss this vaccine | |
| Already received your first Meningitis B vaccine? Contact the Student Health Center for a second dose of Meningitis B immunization appointment |
Don’t assume you’re immune
The primary vaccine has not always been included in the standard vaccinations during childhood
| New Meningitis B vaccine has only been available for a few years | |
| There’s a good chance you’ve not had one or both vaccines and you may be susceptible to infection |
Check your immunization records.