Dear Students, Faculty and Staff,
We are writing to update you regarding the two Bucknell students diagnosed with bacterial meningitis. Dr. Catherine O’Neil, the Medical Director for Bucknell Student Health, has been in close contact with the students’ parents and reports that both individuals’ conditions are improving. We have identified those individuals who came into close contact with the two students and all have received appropriate treatment.
Dr. O’Neil has been communicating regularly with the Pennsylvania Department of Health. The bacterial organism involved has been identified as Neisseria meningitis. There are several types of Neisseria, but the exact strain has not yet been determined.
As mentioned in previous communications, there are two different meningitis vaccines. Menveo and Menactra cover strains A, C, W and Y, and Bexsero and Trumenba cover type B. While these vaccines are not required for students to enter Bucknell, the majority of Bucknell students have received the vaccine that covers types A, C, Y and W. Fewer have had the vaccine to protect against meningitis type B. Bucknell Student Health continues to recommend both vaccines for all students and offers them on campus.
Bucknell Student Health will offer the vaccines by appointment through extended hours on Monday and throughout the week as needed. Any students who would like to be vaccinated should call 570-577-1401 Monday morning to schedule an appointment. It is important to note that it can take 10 to 14 days after administration for vaccinations to provide immunity.
Both bacterial and viral meningitis are spread by close contact, as is the case for most illnesses. In order to protect yourself from illness
- Avoid sharing utensils, bottles, cigarettes, drinks or anything else that goes in your mouth with other people.
- Wash your hands thoroughly and frequently using soap and water.
- Always cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze.
- Avoid smoking and excess alcohol – these both weaken your immune system and make you more susceptible to diseases.
- Eat healthy foods and get plenty of rest.
Symptoms of meningitis are very similar to other illnesses, such as the flu. Students who are experiencing symptoms of flu, fever, headache, stiff neck, nausea or vomiting should be seen by a health provider for further evaluation.
For more information on meningitis, please visit cdc.gov/meningitis/index.html. Please do not hesitate to contact Bucknell Student Health if you have any questions regarding this information.
Sincerely,
Amy Badal, Dean of Students
Catherine O’Neil, MD, Medical Director, Bucknell Student Health