How is Meningitis transmitted?
Meningococcal bacteria are transmitted through air droplets and direct contact with persons already infected with the disease. Direct contact also occurs with shared items, such as cigarettes or drinking glasses, or through intimate contact such as kissing. Cases of Meningitis among teens and young adults 15 to 25 years of age (the age of most college students) have more than doubled since 1991. The disease strikes about 3,000 Americans each year and claims about 300 lives. Between 100 and 125 Meningitis cases occur on college campuses and as many as 15 students will die from the disease. A vaccine is available that protects against four types of the bacteria that cause Meningitis in the United States—types A,C,Y and W-135. These types account for nearly two thirds of Meningitis cases among college students. The St. Olaf Health Service offers both the Hepatitis B vaccine and the Meningitis vaccine (Menomune or Menactra). The Hepatitis B vaccine is a series of three injections and off
