FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — The Arkansas Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Health, is investigating a case of bacterial meningitis at the University of Arkansas. As of Tuesday, April 4, the Division of Health had evaluated all possible contacts of the case at risk for infection and recommended education and preventive treatment for these close contacts.

In accordance, the Pat Walker Health Center medical staff is carrying out that education and treatment.  At this point in time, no further risk of infection to students, faculty or staff at the university is anticipated. The student was being treated and was recovering.

"Symptoms of meningitis often present as flu-like symptoms, making it difficult to diagnose, and may include high fever, severe headache, stiff neck, rash, nausea, vomiting, fatigue and confusion,"  stated Dr. Elizabeth Woods, medical chief of staff at the Health Center.  "Individuals who notice these symptoms should make contact with a medical provider in a timely manner.  Preventive treatment normally includes antibiotic treatment and education on symptoms and personal health care management."

Meningococcal disease is a rare, but potentially fatal, bacterial infection, which most commonly leads to meningitis, an inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord, or meningococcal septicemia, an infection of the blood. This disease is spread person-to-person through the air by respiratory droplets as a result of coughing or sneezing. The bacteria can also be transmitted through direct contact with an infected person through shared eating and drinking utensils as well as kissing.

"During New Student Orientation, University of Arkansas health officials inform all students and parents of the availability of the meningitis vaccine," said Mary Alice Serafini, Director of the Pat Walker Health Center. "The Pat Walker Health Center provides this immunization at a cost of $70 to the students.  Many other health clinics also offer this vaccine and advise students who are entering college to be vaccinated prior to or during their first year of college," she continued.

Students, parents, faculty and staff who want to learn more about meningococcal disease may access information at the following Web sites:

• American College Health Association:  http://www.acha.org/projects_programs/meningitis/index.cfm
• Centers for Disease Control: http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dbmd/diseaseinfo/meningococcal_g.htm