Meningococcal disease is very serious and can be deadly. Individuals who are between 16–23 years old are in one of the most affected groups. The disease is transmitted through the exchange of respiratory and throat secretions like saliva. Minimize your risk in the following ways:

• Don’t share cups, bottles, straws, utensils, smoking materials, toothbrushes, cosmetics, or lip balm.
• Get vaccinated. There are two types of vaccines that can help protect you from meningococcal disease: vaccines for meningitis types ACWY and vaccines for meningitis type B. Contact UHS today to schedule an appointment to initiate or complete your meningitis vaccines. Update your vaccine records at the MyUOHealth portal.

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience flu-like symptoms that rapidly worsen, including fever, headache, stiff neck, nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light, and altered mental status (confusion).

Students experiencing these symptoms should immediately contact University Health Services (541-346-2770). If symptoms are sudden and severe or occur after hours, immediately go to an urgent care or hospital emergency room.

More information about the disease is available from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.