Information for Parents from Student Health Services

Dear Parents,

Welcome to the Montreat College community! As the parent of a college student myself, I know many of the concerns you may have about the health and safety of your sons and daughters while they are at college. I hope you will take some time to peruse the health & wellness website, in order to answer any questions you may have. Required medical forms and other health considerations are covered on the New Student Information page. You may also want to look over Health ServicesPrivacy Policy. For other questions not covered in the website, you can contact the Health Services Office (while college is in session) at (828) 669-8012 x 3536.

Linda Thompson, RN

Director of Health Services

Meningococcal Information

Certain college students are at increased risk for meningococcal disease, a potentially fatal bacterial infection commonly referred to as meningitis. College freshmen, particularly those living in residence halls, are at a modestly increased risk for meningococcal disease compared with persons the same age that are not attending college.

• What is meningococcal meningitis? Meningitis is rare. But when it strikes, this potentially fatal bacterial disease can lead to swelling of fluid surrounding the brain and spinal column as well as severe and permanent disabilities, such as hearing loss, brain damage, seizures, limb amputation, and even death.

• How is it spread? Meningococcal meningitis is spread through the air via respiratory secretions or close contact with an infected person. This can include coughing, sneezing, kissing, or sharing items like utensils, cigarettes, and drinking glasses.

• What are the symptoms? Symptoms of meningococcal meningitis often resemble the flu and can include high fever, severe headache, stiff neck, rash, nausea, vomiting, lethargy, and confusion.

• Who is at risk? Certain college students, particularly freshmen who live in residence halls, have been found to have an increased risk for meningococcal meningitis. Other undergraduates can also consider vaccination to reduce their risk for the disease.

• Can meningitis be prevented? Yes. A safe and effective vaccine is available to protect against four of the five most common strains of the disease. The vaccine provides protection for approximately three to five years. As with any vaccine, vaccination against meningitis may not protect 100 percent of all susceptible individuals.