With recent cases of viral meningitis on campus, UHS would like to share information on the difference between viral meningitis and bacterial meningitis.
It’s very important for anyone with meningitis symptoms—including a severe headache, rash, light sensitivity, confusion, or stiff neck—to see a healthcare provider right away, since viral and bacterial meningitis can present similarly. Only a healthcare provider can determine if someone has the disease, the type of meningitis, and the best treatment.
Preventing viral meningitis
Viral meningitis is the most common type of meningitis and is usually milder than bacterial meningitis. Most people recover fully with rest and supportive care at home. To prevent viral illness, including viral meningitis:
- Stay home if you are ill, and avoid close contact with others if you have symptoms.
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, especially after using the restroom, before eating, and after coughing or sneezing.
- Disinfect surfaces that are frequently touched, such as doorknobs.
- Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or elbow and dispose of tissues immediately.
- Avoid sharing personal items: Do not share drinks, utensils, or toothbrushes.
Vaccination against bacterial meningitis
Bacterial meningitis, while rare, is potentially life-threatening if it does occur. Of those who become ill, 10–15 percent will die. Of those who survive 20 percent will experience serious impairment, including brain damage, hearing loss, or loss of limbs.
Can bacterial meningitis be prevented?
Yes! Vaccinations are available to protect against bacterial meningitis.
Meningococcal disease is caused by a few different bacteria that fall into different “serogroups,” which are strains of bacteria. The five types are A, B, C, Y, and W.
You likely received a vaccine to protect against strains A, C, W, and Y in childhood. However, most people have not been vaccinated against strain B. Check your vaccination records to see if you have been vaccinated against some or all of these strains, which will be noted in the name of the vaccine.
Should I be vaccinated against Meningitis B?
If you live communally or with multiple roommates, the MenB vaccine may be right for you.
Meningitis B is twice as likely in college students who live in on-campus housing or a fraternity/sorority house. Meningococcal bacteria are spread by direct contact with an infected person’s oral or nasal secretions and can be spread by things like sneezing, kissing, or sharing drinks. For this reason, it is more commonly spread in communal living situations. The bacteria is not spread through the air, in food or water, or by casual contact in classrooms, restaurants, or other social settings.
Want to receive a MenB vaccine?
UHS can help. Talk to a health care provider.
You can receive a vaccination against meningococcal disease at UHS (fees may apply) or at your health care provider.