Meningitis in the Schools

Meningitis is an infection that causes the meninges--the membrane surrounding the spinal cord and brain--to become inflamed. Meningitis can be either viral or bacterial. The viral form is most common and rarely fatal, while the bacterial form is most risky and can cause brain damage or fatality.

Signs

• Administrators at schools should be aware of the signs of meningitis for the health and safety of other students. Signs of meningitis are most typically fever, intense headache, stiff neck, nausea, vomiting, confusion, drowsiness, poor appetite and being sensitive to bright lights. The symptoms for both types of meningitis are similar and need to be diagnosed by a medical professional.

Treatment

• Any student or teacher who is experiencing symptoms of meningitis should seek treatment immediately, especially if diagnosed with bacterial meningitis. The viral form is best treated by getting plenty of rest and fluids, while bacterial meningitis requires a range of antibiotics, given both orally and intravenously.

Prevention

• Prevention is the best way to avoid the spread of meningitis to other students or teachers. Preventative measures include washing hands with soap and water frequently, not sharing food or utensils with other people and not spending time around people who have been diagnosed.

Measures to take

• Different schools approach an outbreak of meningitis in different ways. They are expected to advise parents and students of a possible outbreak, along with informing the local health department. Some schools close when an outbreak occurs, such as the Tri County Schools in Beatrice NE, which did so on Jan. 14, 2011 as an extra precaution when two students experienced an outbreak. Any individuals who may have come in contact with the person infected may want to get an antibacterial shot to minimize the risk.