In September, in the same week, a University employee was hospitalized and later died of meningococcemia (a serious bloodstream infection with the same bacteria that causes meningococcal meningitis) and a University student, who was living off campus, was hospitalized with viral meningitis. Media attention generated speculation that the two illnesses were related. They were not.

Dr. Joseph Siebold, director of UD’s Student Health Service, was asked to provide information about these diseases.

Q. What is viral meningitis?

Dr. Siebold: Viral meningitis is a serious disease, but rarely is it fatal in persons with normal immune systems. Usually, symptoms last from seven to 10 days and the person recovers completely. There is no specific treatment for viral meningitis, and most patients recover on their own. Doctors frequently recommend bed rest, fluids and medicine to relieve fever and headache.

Q. How is viral meningitis spread?

Dr. Siebold: Enteroviruses, the most common cause of viral meningitis, are most often spread through direct contact with respiratory secretions (e.g., saliva, sputum or nasal mucus). This usually happens by shaking hands with an infected person or touching something they have handled, and then rubbing your own nose, mouth or eyes. The virus can be found in the stool of persons who are infected. Because most persons who are infected with enteroviruses do not become sick, it can be difficult to prevent the spread of the virus. If you are in contact with someone who has viral meningitis, however, the most effective method of prevention is to wash your hands thoroughly and often.

Q. How is bacterial meningitis different from viral meningitis?

Dr. Siebold: The other meningitis–bacterial meningitis, including meningococcal meningitis– can be very serious and can result in disability or death. Meningococcal meningitis is a bacterial infection that causes inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. The disease strikes about 2,600 Americans each year, leading to death in approximately 13 percent of the cases, which translates to more than 300 deaths annually. On our campus, in 1996, there was one case of meningococcal pneumonia in a UD student. She was treated in a timely manner and fully recovered.

Q. How is bacterial meningitis spread?

Dr. Siebold: : The incidence of meningococcal meningitis outbreaks has risen on college campuses in the past five years, and some investigations suggest that the risk during these outbreaks of contracting the disease is increased by lifestyle behaviors common for many college students, such as active and passive smoking, bar patronage and excessive alcohol consumption. The disease is transmitted through the air via sneezing or coughing and direct contact with persons infected with the disease. Because college students often live in close quarters, such as residence halls or fraternity houses, they have an increased risk of meningococcal disease. Outbreaks tend to peak in late winter and early spring but can occur any time school is in session.

Q. Is a vaccination for meningococcal disease recommended?

Dr. Siebold: Yes. The American College Health Association (a health organization representing more than 900 universities) has recommended that all students entering universities consider vaccination for this disease. On Oct. 21, the Center for Disease Control (CDC) issued a statement in support of increasing information on college campuses about meningococcal meningitis disease and also supporting the availability of and benefits of vaccination for students wanting to reduce their risk of this disease. For several years, this recommendation has been included in the health history forms and immunization record sent to all students admitted to UD. Students and parents can consult with their private physicians on the vaccines or call Student Health Service at (302) 831-2226.