Health Center at Auraria officials are aware of the recent announcement that a University of Colorado-Boulder student was diagnosed with meningococcal meningitis. We have confirmation from State of Colorado officials that all individuals who have been in contact with this student have been notified and received preventative treatment, and this student has no known connection with the Auraria Campus.
The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) adopted recommendations in February 2005 that all incoming college freshmen living in dormitories be vaccinated against Meningitis. Since the immunization against Meningitis was not a routine childhood vaccine until mid 2005, some students could be without protection.
Every year between 100 and 125 Meningitis cases occur on college campuses and as many as 15 students will die as a result of this serious disease. Research proves students are at higher risk due to lifestyle factors such as crowded living environments, sharing of personal property, decreased immune systems and lack of sleep. The symptoms of Meningitis often are mistaken for common flu, cold or fever and when not treated early, less severe effects could include: hearing loss, seizures or amputation of limbs.
There is not a known current outbreak on the Auraria Campus. However, the Health Center at Auraria medical staff encourages you to learn more about this disease and your risk and to get vaccinated. The Meningococcal immunization and other recommended adult vaccines are available at the Health Center at Auraria. For more information, stop by the Health Center, Plaza Building, #149, Auraria Campus, or go to the: Health Center at Auraria website.
Additional information is available online at:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.