Meningitis Outbreak Possible At Rutgers After New Case Reported

The discovery of a new case of bacterial meningitis at Rutgers University suggests the college is dealing with an outbreak of the deadly disease, according to the university.

Laboratory tests indicate that two students had infections caused by Neisseria meningitidis. Special testing that was performed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show that the bacteria from the two cases are genetically identical, according to an Rutgers email sent to students,

"This suggests that the strain is present on the Rutgers University-New Brunswick campus," wrote Melodee Lasky, assistant vice chancellor for Health & Wellness, Rutgers Student Affairs.

"Although here have been only two cases, public health officials are concerned that this may represent an outbreak since the two cases have occurred over a relatively short period of time," she said.

There are no recommendations or plans to cancel any activities or scheduled events on the Rutgers University campus. President Obama is scheduled to speak at the college on Sunday during commencement exercises.

The college said it couldn't predict whether there will be additional cases of "MenB" associated with Rutgers University-New Brunswick, but it did suggest that vaccination is the best protection against meningococcal disease.

Symptoms of meningococcal disease, which is potentially deadly, include a rash, headache, stiff neck and/or fever). The disease is treatable with antibiotics, but treatment must be started quickly.

The New Jersey Department of Health, local health officials, Rutgers Student Health, and the CDC are working together to develop public health recommendations, including vaccination, to protect the Rutgers University community, according to the email.

Members of the University community who experience symptoms or have health concerns may visit their health care provider

Students may visit Rutgers Student Health (848-932-7402) Monday through Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., at Hurtado Health Center, Busch Livingston Health Center and Cook Douglass Health Center (http://rhsmedical.rutgers.edu/locations/hours-of-operation/).

What is meningitis?

Meningococcal (muh-nin-jo-cok-ul) disease is a serious illness caused by a type of bacteria called Neisseria meningitidis. The disease may result in inflammation of the lining of the brain and spinal cord (meningococcal meningitis) and/or a serious blood infection (meningococcal septicemia). Meningococcal disease can become deadly in 48 hours or less. Even with treatment, 10-15% of people die. Others have long-term complications such as brain damage, learning problems, skin scarring, hearing loss, and loss of arms and/or legs.

What are common symptoms of meningococcal disease?

Confusion

Fatigue (feeling very tired)

Fever and chills

In later stages, a dark purple rash

Nausea and vomiting

Rapid breathing

Sensitivity to light

Severe headache

Stiff neck

Rutgers says: Contact Rutgers Health Services immediately if you experience symptoms, since early diagnosis and treatment are very important.

How does meningitis spread?

The bacteria are spread from person-to-person through the exchange of saliva (spit), coughs, and sneezes. You must be in direct (close) or lengthy contact with an infected person’s secretions to be exposed. Examples of close contact include: Kissing, Living in the same house, Sharing cigarettes, drinks, eating utensils or food, Sleeping in the same residence (sleep overs).

Although anyone can get meningococcal disease, adolescents and college students who live in dormitories are at an increased risk. The bacteria that cause meningococcal disease are less infectious than the viruses that cause the common cold or flu, however.

How can I avoid getting or spreading meningitis?

Practice healthy habits such as washing your hands frequently, and covering coughs and sneezes. Avoid sharing eating utensils, drinks, cigarettes with others. Speak with your health care provider to make sure you are up-to-date with age-appropriate vaccinations including vaccines to protect against meningococcal disease.