Information about Meningococcal Meningitis

Meningitis is rare. However, when it strikes, its flu-like symptoms make diagnosis difficult. If not treated early, meningitis can lead to swelling of the fluid surrounding the brain and spinal column as well as severe permanent disabilities, such as hearing loss, brain damage, seizures, limb amputation and even death.

The disease strikes about 3,000 Americans each year and claims about 300 lives. Between 100 and 125 meningitis cases occur on college campuses and as many as 15 students will die from the disease.

A vaccine is available that protects against four types of the bacteria that cause meningitis in the United States - types A, C, Y and W-135. These types account for nearly two thirds of meningitis cases among college students.

If you wish to receive the meningococcal meningitis vaccine (Menomune), it is available either through your private health care provider or the county Department of Health. The cost of the vaccine usually ranges from $60 to $85.

You can find information about the disease on the websites:

• New York State Department of Health
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):
• American College Health Association (ACHA)