New students and returning students who enroll in a Central Texas College Texas Site are required to provide proof of a bacterial meningitis vaccination during the previous 5-year period. Proof of vaccination or booster must be provided not later than 10 days before the first day of the term. Exceptions to the requirement may include students who enroll only in online or other distance education courses, who are 22 years of age or older, who have not had a break in enrollment of at least one fall or spring semester, and those who may be eligible to apply for an exemption as set forth in Texas Education Code 51.9192. Some of these exemptions may not apply to those that live in on-campus housing. For more information, see “Important Information about Bacterial Meningitis” herein.
- Important Information about Bacterial Meningitis:
This information is being provided to all new college students in the state of Texas. Bacterial meningitis is a serious, potentially deadly disease that can progress extremely fast - so take utmost caution. It is an inflammation of the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord. The bacteria that cause meningitis can also infect the blood, leading to 5-15 deaths among college students every year. There is a treatment, but those who survive may develop severe health problems or disabilities - What are the Symptoms?
Symptoms | |
|---|---|
| • High fever | • Severe headache |
| • Rash or purple patches on skin | • Vomiting |
| • Light sensitivity | • Stiff neck |
| • Confusion and sleepiness | • Nausea |
| • Lethargy | • Seizures |
There may be a rash of tiny, red-purple spots caused by bleeding under the skin. These can occur anywhere on the body.
The more symptoms, the higher the risk, so when these symptoms appear seek immediate medical attention
- How is Bacterial Meningitis Diagnosed?
- Diagnosis is made by a medical provider and is usually based on a combination of clinical symptoms and laboratory results from spinal fluid and blood tests.
- Early diagnosis and treatment can greatly improve the likelihood of recovery.
- How is the Disease Transmitted?
The disease is transmitted when people exchange saliva (such as by kissing, or by sharing drinking containers, utensils, cigarettes, toothbrushes, etc.) or come in contact with respiratory or throat secretions. - What are the Risk Factors?
- Living in close conditions (such as sharing a room/suite in a dorm or group home).
- Sharing eating utensils, food or drinks.
- Sharing cigarettes and toothbrushes.
- What are the Possible Consequences of the Disease?
- Permanent brain damage
- Learning disability
- Gangrene
- Convulsions
- Kidney failure
- Hearing loss, blindness
- Coma
- Limb damage (fingers, toes, arms, legs) that requires amputation
- Death (in 8 to 24 hours from exposure)
- Can This Disease be Treated?
- Antibiotic treatment, if received early, can save lives and chances of recovery are increased.
However, permanent disability or death can still occur. - Vaccinations are available and should be considered for:
- Those living in close quarters.
- College students 21 years or younger.
- Vaccinations take 7 - 10 days to become effective, with protection lasting from 3 to 5 years.
- The cost of the vaccine varies so check with your health care provider.
- Check with your health care provider for more information.
- Antibiotic treatment, if received early, can save lives and chances of recovery are increased.
- How Can I Find Out More Information?
- Contact your own healthcare provider.
- Contact the Bell County Health Office at 254-526-8371.
- Contact web site: www.cdc.gov