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AT RISK?
Know the symptoms, but don’t panic

Freshmen are six times at greater risk to catch meningitis than other college students, according to the Meningitis Foundation of America.

Meningitis is a life-threatening disease that affects 100 to125 college students a year, the foundation said. That doesn’t mean students need to freak out and sterilize everything in sight, but there are common-sense steps freshmen, especially those living in residence halls, should take to be safe.

First, learn about the disease. According to the Center for Disease Control, there are two types of meningitis: viral and bacterial. Viral meningitis is the most common form of the disease, and is less severe. Bacterial meningitis is the deadliest form, but it is also the rarest. It can cause brain damage or hearing loss.

The disease is spread through the exchange of saliva. Kissing and sharing drinks are some of the ways the disease is spread. You can’t catch meningitis just by standing next to someone with the disease.

Second, learn the symptoms. High fever, headache and a stiff neck are all signs of meningitis. Other symptoms may include vomiting, sensitivity to bright lights and sleepiness. The symptoms can develop in a few hours, or one or two days. If you are experiencing these symptoms, you may need to see a doctor.

You may also want to your doctor about getting vaccinated. The Meningitis Foundation of Americarecommends that college freshmen — and all young adults ages 18 to 22 — get vaccinated. The Health Center offers them for $70. The telephone number there is (817) 257-7940.

There is no reason to panic. Only 3,000 Americans a year contract the disease. But since it can be deadly, we should all take these preventative measures.