Meningitis

WHAT IS IT:  A bacterial infection of the spinal cord and fluid around the brain.  (The viral version is not as severe and usually resolves itself.)

COMMON SYMPTOMS:  HIGH fever, headache, stiff neck, severe pain and aches in jhointes, severe headaches that does not stop, sensitivity to light.  The symptoms may progress to changes in level of consciousness, cognition, orientation and memory, abnormal eye movement, seizures and/or a red to purple rash.

WHO IS AT RISK:  Children, college students who live in dorms, refugees, military recruits and people with weak immune systems.

HOW IT IS PASSED:  Bacteria are spread through mucus and saliva, such as when coughing or kissing, sharing water bottles and other utensils.

FEDERAL RECOMMENDATION:  Vaccination for children ages 11 to 12, high school freshman and college students who live in dorms.  MCV4, sold as Menactra, is the name of the vaccine that is believed will provide coverage through high school and college.  It is longer acting than previously available vaccines.