February 6, 2001
Troy, N.Y. — Meningococcal meningitis has been diagnosed
affecting a single student at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute.
The student, a sophomore, is hospitalized in good condition and
is recovering.
Meningococcal meningitis — an inflammation of the membranes of
the brain and spinal cord — and its accompanying bloodstream
infections are rare but potentially dangerous. The risk for
contracting this disease is low.
In response to the diagnosis, the Institute is providing free
immunizations for all students, faculty, and staff at a variety
of campus locations, beginning today. Vaccinations will be
given at the Rensselaer Union 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. today and
Wednesday, Feb. 7, 1 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Responding to the diagnosis of this case, the Rensselaer
Student Health Center immediately notified 142 persons who are
believed to have been in recent contact with the affected
student. These people were immediately treated with
Ciprofloxacin, an antibiotic drug that reduces the risk of
contracting or transmitting meningitis. These persons will also
be offered vaccination as part of the mass immunization.
Rensselaer offered routine vaccination for meningococcal
meningitis in 1999 and 2000. Approximately 1,900 students were
vaccinated as a result of this immunization campaign.
The Rensselaer County Department of Health and the New York
State Health Department are assisting with the response to the
diagnosis.
The vaccine being offered is Menomune - A/C/Y/W-135
Meningococcal Polysaccharide Vaccine, Groups A, C, Y and W-135
Combined. Menomune has a proven safety record. As with any
vaccine, vaccination may not protect all susceptible
individuals.
Immunization should be deferred during the course of any acute
illness. Pregnant women should not be immunized since effects
of the vaccine on the fetus are unknown. Vaccination is not
advised in individuals known to be sensitive to thimerosal or
any other components of the vaccine.
Adverse reactions to the meningococcal vaccine are mild and
infrequent, consisting primarily of localized redness and pain
at the injection site lasting 1 to 2 days.
Some common early symptoms of meningococcal meningitis include
fever, severe headache, stiff neck, nausea, vomiting, rash and
lethargy. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should see a
physician immediately.
Anyone who has had close, intimate contact with a person
diagnosed with meningococcal meningitis should see a physician
immediately for antibiotic preventative treatment.
Contact: Theresa Bourgeois
Phone: (518) 276-2840
E-mail: bourgt@rpi.edu